Keep Calm and Carry On

Unfortunately, those who may benefit most, the Chinese government, from reading the Ottawa Citizen's June 3rd editorial "Don't Diss Democracy", are not likely to give it any thought. While we, western democracies, can keep chipping away at the way China and other autocracies treat their citizens, including the suppression of free speech, it is a reminder for us to appreciate what we have in Canada. Even though we may have some challenges in trying to find the right balance for those internal issues that can tend to pull people in opposing directions, we endeavour to seek resolutions in a democratic manner. When it comes to dealing with foreign governments with a less than stellar record of protecting and promoting human rights, our pursuit of economic growth is fraught with additional challenges. Global Affairs Minister Stephane Dion, and Canada, had nothing to gain by publically chastising the Chinese minister for his response to the reporter's question. As meaningful diplomacy and progressive change is seldom achieved in front of a group of reporters, we must have confidence in our government officials, both elected and non-elected, they will be advancing the best interests of Canadians.