Mr. Speaker, I rise today to welcome the 20 American Political Science Association Congressional Fellows visiting Ottawa this week from Washington, D.C.
This impressive group of individuals comes from a wide variety of backgrounds and includes political scientists, judges, foreign service officers, doctors and journalists.
Initially designed to bring academics and political reporters to Capitol Hill, the congressional fellowship program now includes a full range of individuals taking a one year sabbatical so they may gain valuable experience and understanding of their political process.
Last month these fellows warmly welcomed our own parliamentary interns for a stimulating week of meetings with politicians, professors, party representatives and government officials.
I ask my colleagues to join me in welcoming these congressional fellows to Canada and in wishing them a week of invigorating discussion surrounding the common challenges and achievements that continue to strengthen the very important relationship between our two great nations.