I've had the chance to attend the Commonwealth meeting, the bilateral relations with Australia, and also the discussions in Chile. Oftentimes I have reflected on how in a world of uncertainty, where there's a level of unpredictability, Canada stands out as a beacon of stability and predictability with its rules-based laws and very strong financial system. It's also a nation that is both inclusive and diverse, which is very much attracting investment and interest in our country.
The progressive trade that has been put forward—one that would obviously favour women in business, that would consider youth and indigenous people, under-represented people, and that would focus on SMEs—is making a real difference. I cannot state enough to this committee how much the views of Canada are respected in the world. People see us, as I said, as a beacon of stability in the world, but the world is looking at Canada and at CETA, which is the most progressive trade agreement ever negotiated by either Canada or the European Union. At most meetings I've been at, people refer to CETA as the most progressive deal and are looking at this agreement as the gold standard in the world. I heard that time and time again as I was travelling.
Definitely, in my view, the way to push against protectionism is for Canada to continue to engage as we're doing, whether it's with CETA, whether it's in the Asia-Pacific region, whether it's with the Pacific Alliance, or whether it's with Mercosur, always promoting a rules-based system and one that contains progressive elements. That's what distinguishes Canada in the world today. That's why people want to do trade with Canada.