Mr. Speaker, the government's target, 3 per cent of GDP, is approximately at the level at which the growth of the economy becomes greater than the growth of the debt. The debt to GDP ratio will begin to stabilize and then decline.
That is a very important target for a country. It is not a political target. It is an economic target. I am sure the member understands that. I am also sure the member understands when I say that it is an interim target that our ultimate target is to eliminate the deficit.
I am also sure the member will understand that a country does not only live by targets, that it lives by success. If I might, as of today the fact is Canada had its most impressive year ever for trade. I want to congratulate my colleagues. Merchandise exports, imports and the trade surplus over the year are at record levels. I congratulate the minister.