IM-Herman_2024_0222.pub

Securing and maintaining the country’s trade is thus one of the federal government’s topmost responsibilities, requiring skill, determination and a strategic focus on the national interest. [...] Last spring and summer, there was a flurry of international opprobrium over Canada’s poor performance, coming near the bottom of the list in meeting its NATO commitments to spend 2 percent of GDP on defence. [...] “It’s a perfect example of what not to do in order to help solve some of the bilateral issues in both directions.” Canadians, too, including former senior officials, have spoken out about the dangers in miserly defence budgets. [...] Canada’s recent exclusion from US-led trade and economic initiatives in the Asia-Pacific region is a reflection of how Canada’s store of that commodity has depreciated. [...] Respect and influence in foreign circles, especially in Washington, is required for Canada to secure and enhance its trade and economic interests – and ultimately the standard of living of Canadians.