‘Sensitive’ Round of Canada-EU Trade Talks Kick Off

(Toronto Sun – Stefania Moretti, QMI Agency)

Canada and European Union trade officials met in Ottawa Monday to kick off the fifth and perhaps toughest round of negotiations to date on a free trade accord that could give a $12 billion annual boost to the economy.

Since the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) was first outlined in May 2009, progress has been relatively easy and has included some of the more obvious concessions such as reduced duties between Canada and the EU.

“As this round begins, we’re coming face to face with some of the tougher questions,” International Trade Minister Peter Van Loan said. “I thought that as we entered this crucial phase, it was important to be here personally, to underscore Canada’s commitment to these negotiations.” Read more here.