I call this meeting to order.
Welcome to meeting number 132 of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development.
Today's meeting is taking place in a hybrid format. I would like to remind all members and participants of the following points: Please wait until I recognize you by name before speaking, and please raise your hand if you wish to speak, whether participating in person or via Zoom.
Pursuant to Standing Order 108(2) and the motion adopted by the committee on Thursday, September 26, 2024, the committee is commencing its study of Canada's relations with Latin America and the Caribbean.
I'd like to welcome our two witnesses for today. We're very grateful they could join us. From the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development, we are grateful to have with us Ms. Sylvie Bédard, director general, Central America and the Caribbean, and Ms. Wendy Drukier, director general, South America and hemispheric affairs.
As I understand it, you'll be giving just one opening statement. With respect to your opening remarks and the questions that follow, I would ask that you both look up every once in a while. I will be indicating when you have 15 to 20 seconds left to wrap up.
Ms. Drukier, I understand that you will be speaking. You have five minutes for your opening remarks. You have the floor.