Canada’s first Prime Minister, Sir John A. Macdonald, led our country’s first hesitant steps onto a global stage. The world seemed bigger a century and a half ago. Communications and travel were far less accessible.

If Sir John A. could read just a few of our current Prime Minister’s international activities and announcements in the last year alone, he would be astounded to discover how expanded his role and Canada’s international presence had become.

• Tourism contributes heavily to our economy—nearly $15 billion in 2010. In China a few weeks ago, Mr. Harper launched the Canadian Tourism Commission’s new 2012 tourism marketing campaign, which showcased the many unique experiences our country offers.The PM also furthered a deal which allows the Chinese to purchase Canadian yellowcake uranium, for use in appropriate civilian purposes. The uranium will encourage cleaner energy than the coal China currently relies on to run its plants. (Saskatchewan is one of the world’s largest producers.)
• Last November, at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meetings in Hawaii, the Prime Minister explained that “Canada’s growing commercial ties with the Asia-Pacific region are generating jobs and economic growth here at home.” APEC’s efforts benefit all 21 member economies – including Canada’s – and strengthen our global economy.
• Canada remains committed to addressing global hunger, the scope of which John A. Macdonald could never have envisioned. Last October, Mr. Harper announced the second phase of a “highly successful initiative to support research aimed at providing people in developing countries with a more secure supply of food with greater nutritional value.”
• Last autumn, Mr. Harper met with other Commonwealth Leaders in Australia, to discuss common goals of strong, sustainable and balanced economic growth, recovery from the global financial crisis, global political developments, and building a more secure and safe world.
• During an official visit to Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica and Honduras in August, the Prime Minister collaborated with others on shared areas of security and highlighted Canada’s many successes to date in the region.
• Last May, he participated in the G-8 Summit, to discuss pressing international issues, such as situations in the Middle East and North Africa, global peace and security challenges.
• Last spring, the Prime Minister and other world leaders met in Paris to coordinate implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolutions on Libya. Canada contributed actively to protect Libyan citizens during the ending of the Gaddafi regime.
• In early 2011, the PM announced Canada’s assistance to New Zealand, after the massive Christchurch earthquake.

           
All that, and more, in just a year. The Prime Minister continues to expand Canada’s international presence and influence. Why are these international relations important?  Not only is having a positive influence around the world the right thing to do, but it also helps us economically.  Maintaining good relations with all countries has many benefits for our own citizens. Sir John A. would be pleased.

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The audio version of Garry's March 5, 2012 op-ed column can be heard by clicking here