Finally, A Canadian P.M. That Doesn't Embarrass

The latest meeting of North American leaders is underway at Montebello, Quebec, and I can’t help but notice something a bit different. The script is the same – photo ops, the show of solidarity and friendship, the bath-challenged protesters, - but there is a different feel to the shindig.

It’s the same weird, unfamiliar sensation I experienced the last time the respective national leaders got together, and I think I’ve figured out what it is: for the first time in a long time, it isn’t embarrassing to have the Canadian Prime Minister in the international spotlight.

Stephen Harper looks in control when he meets with the American President. In fact, impression is of an equal friendship. There is nothing to support the long-labored attempt to paint Harper as some sort of Bush stooge or puppet, as is the wish of the political Left. On the contrary, one feels that when Harper makes a point of discussing an issue such as Canada’s Arctic sovereignty that it is received with all due consideration. Harper has grown confident on the world stage, and his assuredness has helped to place Canada back in the game.

The three continental governments are not going to agree on everything. Disputes are a natural part of international affairs, even between the best of neighbors. Whereas Canada used to have to rely on Prime Ministers who were either incompetent public figures or scandal-ridden tired politicos who were incoherent in both of Canada’s official languages, we now have a national leader who puts his proverbial money where his mouth is.

When the Harper government vowed to rebuild the areas of national defense and the long-gutted military, the voters took notice. What’s more, he has followed through with the promise. How unique it is to be able to take a politician at his word.

Stephen Harper gained the respect of his peers on the international stage. It remains to be seen if that translates into more respect at home.