All we have right now is from 3:30 until 5:30. However, I do ask colleagues to keep in mind that when we travel to other countries we're often suffering jet lag. I find many a time we're traipsed around from one meeting to the next and we're somewhat discombobulated with regard to what's going on.
I imagine our Russian delegation will be in a not dissimilar state. If we can show them some courtesies.... And some people might want to show them Ottawa or things around here afterwards, if they have time, if their schedule isn't entirely booked with state meetings over at the ambassador's residence and various things, as it usually is. I think they would be greatly appreciative.
I will also say that I'm very heartened that our sister committee from the Russian Federation is visiting Canada. Of course they could go to all sorts of places. But it being that my family came from areas that were once under the Soviet empire, I think it's significant that we do outreach so that Russia sees itself as part of a greater whole, that we heal some of the rifts of the Cold War, and that they see themselves as allies of NATO, and Canada particularly.
I'm glad to see they're coming to Canada, and I hope their attentions turn this way more often than not.
Mr. Sweet, I hope that answers some of your concerns.
Mr. St. Denis.