International Trade Minister to champion Canada’s progressive trade agenda at 11th WTO Ministerial Conference in Argentina
News Release
December 8, 2017 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada
Canada is a global leader in championing a rules-based international trading system and its institutions, including the World Trade Organization (WTO). Canada’s historic and ongoing role in shaping the multilateral trading system means working hard to improve and strengthen these rules and institutions for today’s global economy to benefit Canadians and citizens worldwide.
From December 10 to 13, 2017, the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of International Trade, will participate in the 11th WTO Ministerial Conference in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Canada will promote a global trading system that reflects an inclusive and progressive approach that benefits the middle class and those striving to join it. Canada will continue to advocate for gender equality, environmental sustainability and better addressing the needs of small and medium-sized enterprises.
Building on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s November 2016 official visit to Argentina, Minister Champagne will meet with Argentinian ministers and senior officials, as well as representatives of Canadian companies and the local business community, to discuss opportunities for increased trade and investment between the two countries.
Minister Champagne will also travel to Uruguay, on December 14 to 15, where he will meet with government officials and representatives of Canadian companies and civil society to discuss Canada’s commitment to open and progressive trade with Uruguay and business opportunities for Canadian companies.
Quotes
“The WTO plays a central role in guaranteeing and improving the rules-based trading system we all depend on for our collective prosperity. Our efforts need to focus on how the benefits of trade can be equitably distributed among our citizens. I look forward to discussing opportunities to chart a new course for the WTO that includes a more progressive vision for the future.
“Argentina and Uruguay are key markets and, as members of Mercosur, are key partners for Canada’s progressive trade agenda.”
- François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of International Trade
Quick Facts
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The WTO, which has 164 member countries, was created on January 1, 1995.
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The ministerial conferences are the highest decision-making body of the WTO. Conferences are held at least once every two years and are attended by trade ministers of WTO member countries.
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In 2016, bilateral trade between Canada and Argentina and Canada and Uruguay totalled $1.9 billion and $245 million respectively.
Associated Links
Contacts
Pierre-Olivier Herbert
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of International Trade
343-203-7332
Media Relations Office
Global Affairs Canada
343-203-7700
media@international.gc.ca
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