Thank you, Madam Chair.
I guess it's no surprise that Conservatives are going to bring this motion back again. For us to redeem ourselves.... It shows from the vote how supportive they are of this modernized CUFTA agreement. Let's remind members that this modernized CUFTA agreement was discussed prior to the war outbreak. I don't think any of us would agree that we support this ongoing war conflict that's happening between Russia and Ukraine. We want them to end this as soon as possible. The focus is on looking at the long term and seeing how we can help Ukraine rebuild.
I'm not supporting this motion, definitely. For us to redeem ourselves, we should continue to move forward with this legislation and make sure that this passes through the House as soon as possible so that we can help with the rebuilding efforts of Ukraine. Hearing from my community, the UCC and the Ukrainian community in Richmond Centre, everyone understands how important this free trade agreement is. We are looking forward to speeding up this process to make sure that it's in place so that more relations between our countries can be established and help with the rebuilding effort.
I want to put this on the record as well: The deputy minister of economy and trade negotiator of Ukraine spoke highly of this agreement and how this agreement will rebuild Ukrainian confidence. Also, in Toronto specifically, this agreement gives more opportunity for SMEs in Canada and Ukraine. This is exactly why Canada and Ukraine are interested in moving this modernized CUFTA agreement forward.
On how we can grow our small and mid-sized businesses into international businesses, I feel this is very important for not just our local or national economy but the global economy as well.
I'm going to end it on that note. I really hope that the Conservatives are not playing games. Let's move forward with this new modernized CUFTA agreement. Thank you.