Canada and Ecuador Explore High-Standard Free Trade Agreement in Bilateral Meeting

Canada's Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade, and Economic Development, Mary Ng, held a virtual meeting with Ecuador's Minister of Production, Foreign Trade, Investment, and Fisheries, Sonsoles García. This marked their first bilateral meeting, during which Minister Ng congratulated Minister García on her Cabinet appointment and expressed Canada's commitment to expanding the growing trade relationship between the two countries.

Minister Ng addressed Ecuador's ongoing security crisis and assured Minister García of Canada's full support for Ecuador's efforts to protect its citizens, uphold human rights, and combat organized crime.

The ministers discussed the possibility of launching formal negotiations for a comprehensive, high-standard free trade agreement between Canada and Ecuador in the coming months. Minister Ng expressed gratitude for Minister García's invitation to visit Ecuador and expressed interest in future meetings.

Additionally, Minister Ng conveyed her support for Minister García's initiatives in strengthening Ecuador's commercial environment, supporting small and medium-sized businesses, and job creation. She also emphasized Canada's interest in responsible mining and critical minerals, highlighting Canada's role as Ecuador's largest foreign investor in this sector.