Hon. Danièle Henkel: Honourable senators, we often measure a parliamentary mandate by the number of years, but the truest measure is the depth of the imprint left behind.

Senator Al Zaibak, your time in this chamber may have been brief, but it was remarkably impactful. You arrived here with the sharp instincts of an entrepreneur, someone who understands that you do not just build projects; you build relationships.

Whether the debate turned to the economy, defence or national security, you never settled for the surface. You always looked for the foundation, asking how we could strengthen our institutions and create the strategic partnerships needed to move Canada forward.

That builder’s mindset naturally guided your work in parliamentary diplomacy, most notably by opening doors and reinforcing vital ties with the Gulf region through dialogue and earned trust.

But perhaps the most enduring bridge you built is Bill S-227. In establishing Arab Heritage Month, you gave Canadians much more than a symbolic milestone. You anchored the vibrant history, culture and profound contributions of Arab Canadians permanently into our national fabric.

It is a legacy that will offer rightful recognition and inspire a deep sense of pride and belonging for generations of Arab Canadians to come.

Senator Al Zaibak, you are, in every sense of the word, a true gentleman. From my very first days in this chamber, your courtesy and warmth were a welcome anchor.

You have been consistently generous with your time, deeply respectful in your exchanges and genuinely attentive to those around you.

You have proven that a short mandate can carry weight when it is driven by a clear purpose and a generous heart.

Thank you, my dear colleague, for your dedicated service, for the bridges you built and for the example you leave behind.

I wish you and your family every happiness in this next chapter.

Thank you.