Canada has been, as I mentioned, very supportive of Moldova's endeavours to solve the problem. It has been since I remember only.... I was posted to Washington in my first diplomatic mission, and I remember Canada's very firm support for Moldova's territorial integrity and independence. The recent example, as I mentioned to you, was the decision to co-sponsor the UN General Assembly resolution on the complete and unconditional withdrawal of foreign troops from the territory. However, I also believe that strengthening Moldova's defence capabilities would be very much appreciated by my government because this is where we clearly see Canada's role.
I know how much Canada is doing in terms of equipping and retraining the Ukrainian military. We very much hope that we could be part of those projects that are being developed in Ukraine by Canada. For example—and I have been pleading for this for quite a long period of time since I came here—if Canada could see Moldova in the common regional context, and if Canada could see Moldova having the very same problems of historical heritage and threats to the country, and if it could treat both countries in a common regional context, perhaps this will help very much.
I will just add one thing. I know that the chair will now raise this white paper, white flag, but I will tell you something. Under the Yanukovych regime, the previous regime in Ukraine, there was very little co-operation between the two countries. Moreover, Ukraine had to play the Moscow card in the transnational conflict, unfortunately. What is happening today is completely different. We have very good co-operation and a very good understanding between the two countries.
What we need now is that, when you have Canada so much committed to help Ukraine, by connecting Moldova to this assistance you're not simply making your country more present in Moldova. You facilitate contacts at various levels in various fields. You can bring together experts so that they can work together. This will be for the benefit of Ukraine, of Moldova, and of the entire region.