Canada's most famous robotic and technological achievement made its space debut on November 13, 1981. The design and building of the Shuttle Remote Manipulator System marks the beginning of Canada's close collaboration with NASA in manned space flight. The Canadarm project remains a sterling example of successful international space cooperation.
Canadarm firmly established Canada's international reputation for robotics innovation and know-how. Its excellent performance record has inspired several generations of scientists and engineers as they develop new technologies for industry, medicine, and other applications.
Source: http://www.space.gc.ca/asc/eng/exploration/canadarm/default.