Minister Ng speaks with German Vice-Chancellor and Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Action Robert Habeck

August 22, 2022 – Ottawa, Canada – Global Affairs Canada

Today, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development, spoke with German Vice-Chancellor and Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Action Robert Habeck about strengthening Canada-Germany trade and investment relations.

The ministers discussed the serious challenges to peace, security and the multilateral trading system caused by Russia’s unprovoked, unjustifiable, and illegal invasion of Ukraine. During the meeting, Minister Ng reinforced Canada’s commitment to helping Germany diversify its energy imports away from Russia, while ensuring its energy security and transitioning towards a green economy. This includes accelerating innovation and cooperation in areas such as clean hydrogen, critical minerals and shifting to zero-emission vehicles.

Recognizing that the Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) is an important tool to build resilient supply chains and low-carbon economies on both sides of the Atlantic, Minister Ng welcomed Germany’s recent tabling of CETA ratification legislation. Germany is Canada’s largest merchandise export market in the European Union and bilateral merchandise trade increased 16% since CETA came into force nearly 5 years ago. This inclusive growth is benefitting workers and local communities both at home and abroad.

Minister Ng congratulated Germany on a successful G7 presidency to date, and reiterated that she looks forward to continuing to work closely to strengthen the multilateral trading system, and advance inclusive and health trade initiatives at the respective upcoming G7 and G20 trade and investment ministerial meetings.

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