Indeed, science diplomacy is regaining a great deal of interest around the world. Given the current geopolitical situation, I think there is a growing recognition that science remains a bridge between countries and cultures.
Beyond the diplomatic aspect, there is also the issue of international scientific collaboration and the sharing of major research infrastructure, for example. It is therefore quite important to be in the room when decisions are made.
Actually, I recently came across a Statistics Canada report whose findings will allow me to answer your question about the importance of international relationships. The report indicates that over 10% of our research funding comes from abroad. That represents two-thirds of the federal government's contribution to research and development investments in the country. This is by no means insignificant. It is truly quite important.
There is one funding program in particular that we may not have discussed enough in Canada, even though we greatly benefit from it: Horizon Europe. This is, of course, the European Union's framework program—of which Canada has been an associated member for the past two years. Over the past two years, researchers, whether at universities or in the private sector—I want to emphasize that—have already secured over 60 million euros. So, more than $100 million have flowed into the country from the European Union thanks to these science diplomacy efforts.