(No. 211 - July 22, 2011 - 7 p.m. ET) The Honourable Ed Fast, Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway, today issued the following statement after an announcement by Canada’s premiers that they will pursue a joint trade mission with the federal government to China within 12 months:
“We are pleased to see the provinces and territories formally recognize that expanding Canada’s trading relationships is crucial to strengthening and protecting the financial security of all Canadians—now and into the future.
“We look forward to continuing our strong collaboration with the provinces and territories on free trade agreements.
“The provinces and territories are closely engaged in our current free trade negotiations with the European Union and India, and we greatly value their input, support and ongoing ambition.
“Our ambitious free trade plan will create jobs, economic growth and prosperity for Canadian workers, businesses and their families in all regions of Canada.”
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For further information, media representatives may contact:
Adam Taylor
Director of Communications and Tour
Office of the Honourable Ed Fast
Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway
613-992-7332
Trade Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
613-996-2000
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