The Hon. the Speaker: Senator McPhedran, as I mentioned yesterday, there are a number of people whom I don’t get to on a daily business who want to ask questions. Could you please try to get to your question?

The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, I wish to draw your attention to the presence in the gallery of Mr. Otto Edward Makmot, former member of the National Parliament of Uganda. He is the guest of the Honourable Senator McPhedran.

On behalf of all honourable senators, I welcome you to the Senate of Canada.

Senator McPhedran: Thank you for the reminder, Your Honour.

Senator Gold, Canadian MPs led by the Honourable Judy Sgro visited Taiwan a few weeks ago, joining lawmakers there who have publicly called on Canada to declare support for this self‑governing democracy in the event of an attack or blockade by China as a way to deter any such aggression. What is the government response to this clear and pressing request on behalf of Taiwan?

Senator McPhedran: In January 2022, Canada announced exploratory discussions with Taiwan on a foreign investment protection agreement, an evidence-based decision. You know the evidence, but I can’t go into it in this short period of time.

Senator Gold, Minister Freeland recently called for a re‑evaluation of global partnerships and alliances and breaking with autocrats. Does the government see greater partnership with Taiwan as an example of the Freeland doctrine of friend-shoring?