Debates to underline burning issues as Rice visits (Canada)

[CHIMO]

OTTAWA — The Liberal government has organized two special parliamentary debates to coincide with a visit by U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice in an effort to highlight a pair of hot-button issues — cross-border tourist traffic and the lingering softwood lumber dispute.

Sources say softwood issues would be featured in the talk, along with broader concerns like the growing economic might of India and China and recent World Trade Organization meetings in Zurich and Geneva.

Among other issues up for discussion during Rice's visit, the Americans have signalled that President George W. Bush is looking for additional Canadian help in rebuilding war-torn Iraq, if and when the security situation there simmers down.

Martin is expected to reiterate his opposition to U.S. plans to drill for oil in an Alaska wildlife refuge and also wants to talk about global hotspots like Haiti and Sudan.

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[glarius]

1. Does it bug you as it does me that

the Conservative opposition in parliament, not to mention the talking heads in the media, are always saying things would be better with regards to the soft wood lumber situation if Martin only had a better relationship with Bush? They are always insinuating that the fact that the two leaders are not closer is Martin's fault....For God's sake....BUSH DOESN'T GET ALONG WITH ANY WORLD LEADERS!....Remember how he started out making a big deal of Fox of Mexico?...They no longer are even speaking...He looked into Putin's eyes and saw his soul....hahaha....They are barely speaking....It really bugs me!

[applegrove]

2. Funny - when we refused to go along with ballistic missile shield Condi

Rice canceled her visit to Canada to teach us a less. Now we are upset about softwood lumber and she has decided to come.

Please don't come Ms. Rice. Nobody likes you and you are a big liar. You represent nothing.

Rice Go Home

Rice Go Home

Rice Go Home