Rome, Italy - 11 June 2015
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today had a productive meeting with Matteo Renzi, Prime Minister of the Republic of Italy, during his visit to Rome, Italy. Prime Minister Harper’s visit was part of a broader trip to Europe, during which he met with leaders in Ukraine, Germany, Poland and Vatican City to discuss a range of issues, including continued and concerted action to address threats to global stability and security.
In Rome, the prime ministers discussed bilateral trade and investment, including the tremendous opportunities that the Canada-European Union (EU) Trade Agreement will provide both countries. Prime Minister Harper also promoted Canada as a safe and reliable energy supplier of choice.
The leaders also welcomed progress toward the conclusion within the coming months of two agreements: a modernized Canada-Italy Social Security Agreement and a Framework Agreement on the Reciprocal Recognition of Drivers’ Licenses. The Social Security Agreement will help eligible individuals from Canada and Italy to qualify for the old age, disability, and survivor benefits to which they are entitled. The Framework Agreement on the Reciprocal Recognition of Drivers’ Licenses will allow for the mutual recognition of drivers’ licenses for citizens of both countries.
The prime ministers also exchanged views on a range of international security matters, including the role both countries were playing in the international coalition fighting the so-called Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), ongoing Russian aggression in Ukraine, the situation in Libya, and the challenges posed by the migrant crisis in the Mediterranean.
