Intergovernmental Relations

During question period on intergovernmental relations, the Bloc Québécois raised Quebec’s role on the international stage. The member pointed to the Gérin-Lajoie doctrine, which has guided Quebec’s international relations in its own areas of jurisdiction for over 60 years, said senior Global Affairs officials did not know it, and cited a federal refusal to let a Quebec representative speak at the Canada-European Union summit as evidence that Canada does not respect Quebec’s prerogatives. The Liberal minister replied that Quebec is a distinct nation within a strong Canada, that the government recognizes Quebec’s unique economic and cultural interests, and noted that Montreal hosting the summit reflects Quebec’s role, adding that the government works closely with provinces and territories on international matters.Written by AI from the debate. Updated .

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2 statements

Mona Fortier, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs

Liberal
“Quebec is a distinct nation within a strong Canada. Our government recognizes Quebec's unique economy and culture. We will keep working with its government on education, culture, and French-language matters, because our country is stronger when we work together.”
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Official Hansard

Mr. Speaker, as the Prime Minister said, Quebec is a distinct nation that flourishes within a strong Canada. In an increasingly dangerous and divided world, we must be masters in our own home and build reliable partnerships for Canadians. We recognize Quebec’s unique economic and cultural interests, and we will continue to work with its government, particularly in areas such as education, culture and the francophone community. The Canadian economy is stronger when we work together.

Mona Fortier, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs

Liberal
“Provinces and territories help Canada with its international relationships. Montreal hosting the Canada-European Union summit shows Quebec's important role in that work. We have always worked closely with the provinces and territories, and we will keep doing that to deliver results for Canadians.”
Official Hansard

Mr. Speaker, the provinces and territories bring valuable expertise to Canada’s international relationships. The fact that Montreal is hosting the Canada-European Union summit reflects Quebec’s important role in strengthening this partnership. We have always worked closely with the provinces and territories, and we will continue to do so to diversify our relationships abroad. We are focused on delivering real results for Canadians across the country.

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