Colleagues, thank you for your words of support for our friends, the people of Ukraine.
The friendship between our two countries spans generations and centuries. Canada was the first western country to recognize Ukraine's independence on December 2, 1991. With a Ukrainian Canadian community of approximately 1.3 million people, Canada has one of the largest Ukrainian diasporas in the world.
It has been four years since Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, in clear violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The House of Commons, which is often divided on many issues, continues to reach a consensus on the issue of Ukraine. Since February 2022, we have passed several resolutions on the Russian invasion, an invasion that is a violation of the rules-based international order and is contrary to democratic values.
It is with the utmost respect and admiration that I note that the counterpart of this House in Ukraine, the Verkhovna Rada, under the leadership of Chairman Ruslan Stefanchuk, has remained active and functioning since the onset of the full-scale war. The message to its citizens and to the world is unequivocal: Although Ukraine is under attack, democratic institutions matter and continue to play a central role in fending off Russia's aggression.
As we mark this sombre day and reflect on the tragic consequences of this aggression, we recognize the unwavering resilience that all Ukrainians demonstrate.
In the House and in this country, we are united and inspired by Ukraine. We stand in solidarity with our friends until a just and lasting peace is achieved.
Thank you.
Pursuant to order made on Monday, February 23, I wish to inform the House that because of the statements, the time provided for Government Orders will be extended by 37 minutes.