Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight an important moment that speaks to the deep and historic trade ties between Canada and Europe.
On November 7, in Pasaia, within the Basque country in Spain, the San Juan, a fully reconstructed 16th century Basque galleon, was launched with plans to sail it to Canada in 2027.
The original San Juan was part of the transatlantic trade network linking Pasaia with Red Bay, Labrador, now a UNESCO world heritage site. This trade, among the earliest between Europe and North America, carried not only goods, such as whale oil and lumber, but also knowledge, technology and partnership. The voyage of the San Juan reminds us that Labrador has long been a gateway of commerce and co-operation between countries.
As Canada continues to strengthen its modern trade relationships with Europe, we can look to our shared maritime history for inspiration. The San Juan stands as a powerful symbol of the enduring economic and cultural connections that continue to unite Canada and Europe across the Atlantic.