Conservatives’ discount diplomacy is a failure

The Conservatives are continuing their fire sale of historic official residences abroad without any long-term strategic vision.

“International relations should be about long-term investment, not just making a quick buck,” said NDP foreign affairs critic Paul Dewar (Ottawa Centre). “This decade of diplomatic darkness under the Conservatives must come to an end.”

Among the properties for sale are Villa Grandi, a building recognized as a historic monument to Canadians who fought in Italy during the Second World War, as well as residences in Brazil and Sweden. Past sales of diplomatic properties have not consistently resulted in actual savings.

“The Conservatives are focusing their attention on real estate rather than engaging on critical international issues like climate change and arms control,” said Dewar.