I'll give you an example from my own life.
In 2014, 2015, and 2016, I spent a lot of time in the Congo. One of the reasons we went there was precisely to set up organizations that would provide the structural benefits, like those Canada is hoping to see. For instance, we created a centre for entrepreneurship to help young people understand what owning a business is all about, how to run a business, which governance policy to adopt for business success, and so forth. The centre also teaches them about interacting with the government in relation to the reforms.
I think Canada has a lot to gain from working with native Congolese who are active in Canada at the community level. I'm going to let you in on a secret: I'm running for a national seat. One of the reasons we now want to become involved in Congolese politics is our experience in a culture of democracy. We have realized how a government should work. We recognize that a government should be accountable to the people, and we understand the role elected government representatives should play in serving the electorate.
I think Canada has a lot to gain from working with Congolese nationals and others who have become Canadian citizens and understand Canada's approach to government. Relying on its approach, Canada can work directly with Congolese populations. Belgium set up Schengen house to manage visa applications, study permits, and so forth.
I think Canada can follow suit and work with us. The COCOT, for example, has quite a good governance structure, having adopted sound governance policies. It has bylaws and rules in place, and elects its leadership on an annual basis. We are endeavouring not just to help the diaspora in Canada, but also to make things easier for them by lightening their load—that load being regularly sending home the little money they earn here. In that sense, we aren't really able to get ahead and enjoy the benefits of living in Canada.
The government has many projects involving the co-operation and immigration departments, among others. If you'd like, we could provide you with information on our programs so that, together, we could determine how you could extend support and work with us. We know what Canada hopes to accomplish through its humanitarian missions. Every Congolese person living in Canada or elsewhere knows how this support could take shape. I would say we are very receptive.