Mr. Speaker, this House has received two pieces of good news concerning the economy this week.
First, a budget that reflects the Liberal government's commitment to administering public funds efficiently and providing maximum support to all regions of Canada.
The second news came to us just this morning. According to Statistics Canada, exports have increased by 7.4% in 1998 over 1997, to $320 billion. This growth remains comparable to that of the last two years, which have actually been excellent years for Canada.
These statistics get us thinking. To maintain its unique place on the world stage, today more than ever, as we move toward the year 2000, Canada must remain united.
If we want them to represent a viable economic force in the future, all Canadian provinces must continue to co-operate in a spirit of consultation and negotiation, making Canadian federalism evolve in the interest of quality of life in Canada.
Long live Canada.