We are not at all. In fact, both bilateral and multilateral partnerships are fundamental to my portfolio in defence as well as to Minister Joly's portfolio in foreign affairs.
In fact, with regard to the current crisis in Ukraine, I have been engaged with our partners both bilaterally and multilaterally. For example, I have been meeting with our partners in NATO on a bilateral basis and I spoke with the defence minister of France this week.
By the same token, we cannot underestimate the importance of the defensive relationship we have as a member of NATO. I was at NATO last week meeting with Secretary General Stoltenberg to reiterate Canada's commitment to the international rules-based order and to the deterrence underpinnings of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.