Minister Ng meets with Secretary-General of Association of Southeast Asian Nations

June 20, 2023 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development, met virtually with Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

During the meeting, Minister Ng noted Canada’s deep engagement with ASEAN and the Indo-Pacific and thanked Secretary-General Kao for his ongoing support in finalizing the ASEAN-Canada Strategic Partnership this year and advancing negotiations toward a Canada-ASEAN free trade agreement. The Minister also underscored the importance of making sure the agreement is inclusive of small businesses and underrepresented groups, such as women and Indigenous Peoples.

Minister Ng reaffirmed Canada’s support for ASEAN centrality in bringing peace, security and prosperity to the region and for the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific. She also underscored Canada’s commitment to strengthening trade and investment ties through its Indo-Pacific Strategy.

Minister Ng and Secretary-General Kao said they look forward to the ASEAN Economic Ministers’ Meeting in August, where ministers will discuss opportunities to enhance trade and investment relationships. Minister Ng and Secretary-General Kao said they also look forward to the ASEAN-Canada Summit in September.

Associated links

• Canada-ASEAN free trade agreement
• Canada-ASEAN relations
• ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific
•  Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy
• Canada names location for new Indo-Pacific Agriculture and Agri-Food Office
• Prime Minister’s announcements at the ASEAN-Canada Commemorative Summit
• Minister Ng reinforces Canada-ASEAN relations at successful meeting in Cambodia with ASEAN economic ministers