Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Harper Government Announces Exploratory Talks to Expand the Canada-Israel Free Trade Agreement

(Minister of International Trade)

The Honourable Peter Van Loan, Minister of International Trade, today [Sunday] concluded a two-day visit to Israel to promote closer commercial relations, including exploratory talks in order to expand the Canada-Israel Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

“The Canada-Israel Free Trade Agreement has been tremendously beneficial for our two countries. Two-way merchandise trade has more than doubled since its implementation,” said Minister Van Loan. “Canada’s ties to Israel are very deep, and our friendship is important. Our government is building on these ties and looking at opportunities to expand our trade relationship. We are committed to creating new sources of jobs, growth and prosperity for both of our countries in the years ahead.” [...]

Israel is a key economic partner for Canada. Since the Canada-Israel Free Trade Agreement came into force, two-way merchandise trade has more than doubled, reaching $1.3 billion last year. Israel is Canada’s sixth-largest merchandise export market in the Middle East.

For additional details on Minister Van Loan’s visit, consult Ministerial visit to Israel here.