LTE: Prime minister's 'donut diplomacy' slammed

Published: 0ct 1, 2009

http://www.bclocalnews.com/opinion/letters/63163427.html

Editor: Enough of the donut diplomacy.

Last week, over 120 heads of government, including Barack Obama, met at the United Nations to negotiate a plan to tackle climate instability and improve the global economy. Unfortunately for Canada, Stephen Harper felt his time was better spent at a photo opportunity in a Tim Hortons instead of taking an hour-long flight to New York.

Under this current government, Canada has adopted what could better be described as donut diplomacy. We show up for pictures, but ultimately our foreign policy resembles a bunch of fried dough with a big empty hole in the middle.

The government skips major meetings, will not protect Canadians abroad, and threatens tourism in B.C. tourism by making it difficult for Mexican tourists.

Despite their flaws, at least Brian Mulroney and Jean Chretien were ready to represent Canada on the international stage. This helped bring new jobs to Canada and improved our international reputation. If Stephen Harper is not willing to act like a prime minister, then perhaps it is time he was replaced.

Dan Grice,

Langley