Mr. Speaker, I would like to mention a very special anniversary today, marking Chile's 200 years of independence.
This is an important moment in the history of a country that is a great ally, a country with which we maintain a great relationship, a country that Canada can call a friend.
Like many other countries, Chile has been through difficult moments in its history, but each time, it has been able to rise again with courage and determination. Today it is a great democracy with a strong economy open to the world.
Today Chile is rising from yet another challenge, last February's earthquake.
And we know that Chileans are a proud and brave people; the miners trapped in the Copiapo mine have shown us that.
This situation continues to touch hearts all over the world.
As chair of the Canada-Chile Parliamentary committee and on behalf of all my colleagues in this House, I would like to salute the Chilean government and people.
Happy 200th anniversary. ¡Que viva Chile!