As an economist, it seemed to me that delivering such speeches is a very desirable practice. This is another reason why I have decided to deliver a farewell lecture instead of just a speech, which has been the custom.
But the fundamental reason for this interest is that the exchange rate is an important price in an economy, particularly in one as open as ours. Exports represent about 40% of total Canadian output. And if we add imports, this proportion doubles to 80%. In addition, more than 80% of this trade is with the United States.