On Thursday 23 February, Prime Minister Māris Kučinskis held a meeting with François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of International Trade of Canada.
During the meeting, M. Kučinskis noted that the economic cooperation between the countries has the potential to grow. "I see an opportunity to expand trade relations, and we are also interested in attracting Canada's investment - ICT sector, transport and logistics are the potential areas for cooperation," said the Prime Minister.
In this context, M.Kučinskis noted that on the very day of the visit of the Canadian Minister, the Saeima has ratified the EU-Canada Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which opens up opportunities to expand economic and trade cooperation between Latvia and Canada. Latvia is the first country to ratify it. Both officials stressed the importance of this step, by emphasizing that the entry into force of the agreement will bring only benefits.
As regards the security issues, M. Kučinskis emphasized that the deployment of the Canadian-led multinational combat battalion in Latvia will no doubt be a milestone event. The first Canadian soldiers will begin to arrive in March or April, while already in September the battle group might be staffed. "We are particularly pleased with Canada's decision to assume responsibilities of the NATO Framework Nation in Latvia. This demonstrates Canada's willingness to make a direct contribution to Latvia's security and defence," said M.Kučinskis.
Andrejs Vaivars
Press Secretary to the Prime Minister
Phone: 29228678
E-mail: Andrejs.Vaivars@mk.gov.lv