Mr. Speaker, my constituents are outraged by the controversial and unjustified trade sanctions of the Helms-Burton bill which targets third country investments in Cuba.
Canadians deplore and condemn the excessive and inappropriate use of force by the Cuban government in downing civilian aircraft, action which coalesced Congressional support for this unacceptable legislation.
Equally, we deplore and condemn the excessive and inappropriate use of trade sanctions by the U.S. government which violates the spirit and text of NAFTA and WTO agreements.
The U.S. is an ally, our largest trading partner and a friend. Friends do not do this to friends. I urge the U.S. government to repeal this ill conceived legislation.
I strongly urge this government to vigorously support and protect the rights of Canadian businesses and investment. Above all, let us send a strong message that the United States of America does not dictate Canadian trade policies.