Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleague for his question and commend him for his interest in this region.
My visit to Azerbaijan, Armenia and Georgia was clearly a success. I was well received and met with all three presidents. This is a critical time for the region as all three countries face challenges ranging from systematic corruption, conflicts and poverty.
Notwithstanding these challenges, there are many positive signs in these countries as they move through transition from being former soviet republics to democratic countries enjoying the benefits of a free market economy.
I believe that Canada and our business community have a large role to play in providing assistance to these countries.