Mr. Speaker, Ukraine has just completed the first and second rounds of its first democratic elections.
It has been more than 70 years since Ukraine has had democratic elections, but its people are rich in patience and tolerance.
They have waited very long for this day and they have worked hard to ensure the success of their democracy. They are proud to have achieved a Parliament without bloodshed and extremism during the election process.
I would like to extend congratulations to Elections Canada, especially to Andre Bouchard and Ambassador Francois Mathys for their excellent work in assisting the Ukrainian election committee during the past several months.
The Canadian government and the Canadian people have played a very significant role in Ukraine's search for democracy, its search for hope and its search for peace and a better way of life.
I congratulate Ukraine for having earned the respect of people throughout the world. May Canada and Ukraine continue to work together to make both countries prosperous.