I'd like to call this meeting to order.
Welcome to meeting number 101 of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development. Today’s meeting is taking place in a hybrid format, pursuant to the Standing Orders. Therefore, members are attending in person in the room as well as remotely using the Zoom application.
I'd like to make a few comments for the benefit of members and witnesses.
Before speaking, please wait until I recognize you by name. You may speak in the official language of your choice.
Although this room is equipped with a powerful audio system, feedback events can occur. These can be extremely harmful to interpreters and cause serious injuries. The most common cause of sound feedback is an earpiece worn too close to a microphone.
I remind you that all comments should be addressed through the chair.
With regard to a speaking list, the committee clerk and I will do our best to maintain a consolidated order of speaking for all members.
Pursuant to Standing Order 108(2) and the motion adopted by the committee on Monday, January 29, 2024, the committee will commence its study of Canada’s approach to Africa.
I would now like to welcome all our witnesses.
From the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development, we're grateful to have Ms. Cheryl Urban, assistant deputy minister; Ms. Caroline Delany, director general, southern and eastern Africa bureau; Ms. Apeksha Kumar, director, Maghreb and Egypt; Mr. Marcel Lebleu, director general, west and central Africa bureau; and Ms. Susan Steffen, director general, pan-Africa bureau.
In addition, we have, from the Department of National Defence, Major-General Gregory Smith, director general, international security policy.
I understand that Ms. Urban will speak on behalf of the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development; and Major-General Smith will speak on behalf of the Department of National Defence. Each of you will be provided five minutes for your opening remarks, after which we will go to the members for questions.
Ms. Urban, you have five minutes for your opening remarks.