Mr. Speaker, as the decision to enlarge NATO approaches, the countries of central and eastern Europe that favour integration are especially interested in its outcome. Indeed these countries desire to join the European Atlantic alliance, hoping that this will provide guarantees for their security and stable political and economic evolution.
It is of the utmost importance for Canada, within NATO, to favour the growth of democracy in Eastern and Central European countries and their integration in the European institutions.
Furthermore, the establishment of open and prosperous market economies in the region will generate important trade and investment opportunities for Canada and will contribute to a more beneficial world economy and economic gains for all.
The entire region of Central and Eastern Europe needs to be included in a new European security arrangement based on NATO membership. This approach will require sophisticated diplomatic initiatives and a well conceived strategy. Canada can make a significant contribution to this process.