Marking the third anniversary of the Canada-Colombia Free Trade Agreement to create jobs and opportunities for hard-working Canadians
August 13, 2014 - Bogotá, Colombia - Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
The Honourable Ed Fast, Minister of International Trade, and the Honourable Maxime Bernier, Minister of State (Small Business and Tourism, and Agriculture) today concluded three productive days of promoting closer Canada-Colombia trade and investment ties to create jobs and opportunities in both our countries.
Accompanied by representatives of 19 Canadian companies, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), ministers Fast and Bernier promoted the benefits of Canada’s pro-trade plan for Colombia, a priority partner under Canada’s Global Markets Action Plan.
Minister Fast encouraged Canadian and Colombian companies to continue to seize the opportunities for job creation and economic growth that the 2011 free trade agreement brings to both countries. He promoted the strength of Canadian oil, gas and mining operations in Colombia and highlighted the jobs and opportunities they create in that country. During bilateral meetings, Minister Fast also addressed challenges that Canadian investors face while doing business in Colombia’s extractives sector.
Among Canada’s tools for facilitating greater trade and business opportunities with Colombia is the recently opened office of EDC in Bogotá. The office will expand EDC’s presence in Latin America and help Canadian companies take advantage of the anticipated boom in Colombia’s infrastructure.
Minister Fast will continue his trade mission with a visit to Lima, Peru, today. August marks the fifth anniversary of the Canada-Peru Free Trade Agreement.
Shannon Gutoskie
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Ed Fast
Minister of International Trade
613-992-7332
Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
343-203-7700
media@international.gc.ca
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