Maninder Sidhu
Brampton East, Ontario · Liberal · Canada
“Mr. Speaker, I thank the member opposite for that very important question. The national contact point does amazing work to make sure that our supply chains are protected against forced labour. We will continue making sure that it does this diligent work. In terms of the CORE, we will make a decision in due course.”
“Mr. Speaker, our international efforts are about bringing results home for workers here in Canada. I will talk about our trip to China in January and the $7 billion dollars of agriculture access to China for our farmers across the country. That is more access for our canola growers, our beef farmers and our seafood sector.”
“Mr. Speaker, investments coming into Canada are at record levels, actually close to 20-year highs. Last year alone, there was $97 billion of foreign direct investment into Canada. That is more major projects being built. That is major, big aircraft being built here in Canada. Airbus has a current deal with Mirabel.”
“Madam Speaker, we are building big projects across the country to create new opportunities and new jobs through the new build communities strong fund.”
“Mr. Speaker, this is not a Google search. These are real projects with real workers building big things. There is Darlington's new nuclear project in Bowmanville and its 18,000 jobs; the Port of Montreal expansion and its 8,000 jobs; the copper mine project in Saskatchewan and its 500 jobs; the Grays Bay road and port project, which is en…”
“Mr. Speaker, to get more Canadian exports to new markets and create jobs, we are championing major projects like the Darlington nuclear project with 18,000 jobs in Ontario; the port of Montreal project, 8,000 jobs; the copper mine project in Saskatchewan, 500 jobs; the Grays Bay road and port project, nearly 3,000 jobs in the north; and t…”
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“We want to do more with Canadian farmers.” We are going to be there to continue opening doors for our workers and for our farmers.”
“Madam Speaker, I thank the member for his important work on the trade committee and as my critic. It is an important time. The member opposite mentioned the Prime Minister . We have been clear with Canadians since the very start. Just over eight months ago, during the election, we promised Canadians that we would be out there diversifying our trading partners, along with in the Speech from the Throne. In our budget, we will be making record-level investments. We are opening doors. This is what it is going to take to ensure our economic resilience, to ensure that Canadians have opportunities around the world and so that Canada is seen as a reliable trading partner. That is why the calls that we are getting are, “We want to do more with Canada. We want to do more with Canadian workers.”
“We are building new partnerships. We are opening new markets. We are securing Canada's place in the fastest-growing region of the global economy, because leadership means acting, because prosperity means building and because Canada's future will not be shaped by standing still; it will be shaped by stepping forward. Bill C-18 is a statement of confidence in Canada, confidence in our workers, confidence in our businesses and confidence in our future. We are all in for Canada.”
“The exporters, producers, processors, manufacturers, small businesses and workers are ready, prepared and asking Parliament to act. Choosing not to act is a decision. Delaying is a decision. Hesitation is a decision, and in a fast-moving global economy, those decisions carry consequences. Other countries are moving quickly to secure access in fast-growing markets, and Canada must move too. Bill C-18 would ensure that Canadian workers can compete on a level playing field, it would ensure Canadian businesses are positioned for long-term success, and it would ensure that Canada remains a reliable, rules-based partner. This agreement is not just a document; it is a bridge connecting Canadian ambition with global demand, and we are not stopping with Indonesia. We are deepening engagement across the Indo-Pacific.”
“It is clear that when we act decisively, the benefits ripple across sectors, regions and communities, and it positions Canadian processors and manufacturers to invest confidently, knowing that the rules of trade are clear, predictable and fair. I want to speak directly to this chamber. I believe profoundly in this agreement. I believe in the leadership of the Prime Minister in advancing Canada's role on the global stage. I believe in this government's conviction that Canada must engage, diversify and lead to secure long-term prosperity, and I believe in Canadians: the entrepreneurs, the farmers, the workers and innovators who turn opportunity into results. However, colleagues across the aisle do not have to take my word for it. The value of this agreement is being affirmed by the Canadians who would put it to work every single day.”
“The Wheat Growers Association has described this agreement as a win for western Canadian farmers, noting Indonesia's growing demand for high-quality grain and the importance of market diversification in protecting livelihoods and strengthening resilience. These lessons extend far beyond agriculture. They illustrate how strategic trade agreements benefit the broader economy, from manufacturing to services and from urban to rural Canada. When farmers thrive, communities thrive. When exporters grow, supply chains grow. When trade expands, opportunity expands. In the protein and manufacturing sectors, the Canadian Meat Council and the Canadian Pork Council have described this agreement as a landmark opportunity to expand Canada's presence in the Indo-Pacific.”
“That support resonates in provinces like Saskatchewan, Alberta and Manitoba, where grain production supports farm families, transport workers, exporters and related industries. It also strengthens supply chains that reach Ontario, Quebec and Atlantic Canada, connecting communities through stable jobs and increased economic activity. By securing markets in Indonesia, Canadian farmers gain predictability, allowing them to plan for multi-year harvests, invest in sustainable farming practices and contribute to food security both domestically and globally. It also reinforces Canada's reputation as a dependable supplier of high-quality, ethically produced agriculture products.”
“Trade is not a simple concept. Trade is people. It is skilled tradespeople seeing consistent demand. It is plant workers and technicians benefiting from expanded production. It is port workers, inspectors and transportation professionals handling growing volumes of Canadian goods. These are resilient, productive jobs that anchor communities. Canada's primary producers are a vital part of this story, and the message we have received is clear: They support this agreement. Cereals Canada has called the conclusion of this agreement a significant milestone and praised the government's commitment to expanding market access and creating new opportunities for Canadian exporters.”
“As Indonesia invests billions in energy transition and climate resilience, Canadian companies gain predictable, rules-based access to the market. This agreement is particularly important for small and medium-sized businesses. Large multinational firms can absorb tariffs, but small businesses often cannot. For them, even a 5% duty can be the difference between entering a market or staying out of it. Eliminating tariffs reduces upfront risks, improves cash flows and allows smaller Canadian firms to plan multi-year export strategies and hire new staff to turn plans into production. This is what trade diversification looks like in practice. This is why it matters now more than ever. (1610) The new government has committed to doubling Canada's non-U.S. exports over the next decade. Bill C-18 is a concrete step toward that goal.”
“In forestry and wood products, tariff reductions will enhance competitiveness for Canadian softwood, pulp and paper products used in Indonesia's expanding construction and packaging sectors. These benefits will flow directly to forestry communities in British Columbia, Quebec, Ontario and New Brunswick. In manufacturing, this agreement will reduce tariffs on industrial goods such as machinery, automotive parts, aerospace components, chemicals and fabricated metals. For manufacturers in southern Ontario, Quebec, Alberta and Manitoba, this means the ability to bid into projects and supply chains in Southeast Asia without pricing themselves out of contention. In clean technology and environmental services, the agreement supports Canadian firms working in renewable energy, emissions reductions, water treatment and sustainable infrastructure.”
“In agri-food and processed foods, tariff reductions improve access for value-added products that support jobs not only on farms but in processing plants, logistics hubs and other value-add services. These are jobs that sustain rural communities and urban communities alike, including communities like Brampton East, while strengthening food security at home and abroad. In fish and seafood, Indonesia currently applies tariffs of up to 15% on products such as lobster, salmon, scallops and crab. Under this agreement, those tariffs will be eliminated and phased out. For fish harvesters and processors in Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, P.E.I., British Columbia and Quebec, this translates directly into improved margins, stronger export volumes and greater stability in seasonal employment.”
“They are commercially meaningful changes that affect pricing, competitiveness and long-term investment decisions. Let me be clear about what that means. In agriculture, Indonesian tariffs on Canadian products such as wheat, barley, pulses and oil seeds will be reduced or eliminated entirely. Indonesia is one of the world's largest importers of wheat and Canadian grain, which is valued for its quality and reliability. Eliminating tariffs ensures that Canadian farmers compete on product excellence. That matters to producers in Saskatchewan, Alberta and Manitoba, but it also matters to rail workers, port operators, processors and exporters across Ontario, Quebec and Atlantic Canada who are part of that supply chain.”
“It is a country undergoing rapid urbanization, industrialization and income growth. Its middle class is expanding by millions every single year. Demand is rising for food, raw materials, infrastructure inputs, clean technology and professional services, areas where Canada has both capacity and global credibility. Today, trade between Canada and Indonesia is roughly $6.7 billion in goods and services annually, yet despite that volume, Canadian exporters continue to face tariffs that put them at a disadvantage compared to competitors who are already enjoying preferential access. That is precisely what Bill C-18 changes. Under this agreement, Indonesia will eliminate or reduce tariffs on nearly 86% of tariff lines, covering almost all current Canadian exports. These are not symbolic reductions.”
“It is shifting towards the Indo-Pacific, towards emerging markets and towards economies with expanding middle classes, increasing infrastructure investments and growing demand for food, energy, manufactured goods and services. Canada cannot afford to be passive in this environment. That is why our new government is leaning forward. We are all in for Canada. Our economy, our workers and our communities require foresight and deliberate action. Bill C-18 represents exactly that, a strategic decision to ensure Canadian businesses and workers are positioned to compete in the markets that will define future growth. Indonesia is central to that story. With a population exceeding 275 million potential consumers, Indonesia is the fourth-most populous country in the world and one of the largest economies in Southeast Asia.”
“Madam Speaker, I rise today with pride and conviction to speak in support of Bill C-18 , legislation that will bring into force the Canada-Indonesia comprehensive economic partnership agreement. This is a consequential moment for Canada, a moment to choose engagement over hesitation, diversification over dependence, and action over rhetoric. It is a moment to demonstrate that Canada understands the economic realities of the 21st century and is prepared to act decisively in response to them. The global economy is changing, not gradually, but structurally. Growth is no longer concentrated on a small number of advanced economies.”
“moved that Bill C-18, An Act to implement the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between Canada and Indonesia , be read the second time and referred to a committee. Bill C-18. Second reading He said: Madam Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to share my time with the member for Saanich—Gulf Islands .”
“Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleague for his good work on the international trade committee and, of course, for the good people of Mississauga. Indonesia is the eighth-largest economy in the world, with a population of 280 million potential consumers. The trade agreement we tabled this morning will cut tariffs and open new opportunities in aerospace, agri-food, agriculture, critical minerals and so much more. Together we are opening doors for Canadian workers, Canadian businesses and Canadian products to new global markets around the world.”
“Mr. Speaker, speaking of jobs for the good people of Brampton, Ontario, the new government is making a record $2-billion federal investment for the new SMR energy project in Darlington, Ontario. This will create 18,000 new jobs. Our energy sector is world-renowned and will continue to open doors for new exports around the world.”
“Bill C-18. Introduction and first reading moved for leave to introduce Bill C-18, An Act to implement the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between Canada and Indonesia . (Motions deemed adopted, bill read the first time and printed)”
“Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 32(2), and in accordance with the enhanced transparency requirement set out in the amended policy on the tabling of treaties in Parliament, I have the immense honour of tabling, in both official languages, the economic impact assessment for the Canada-Indonesia Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.”
“Mr. Speaker, the MOU is about building Canada strong with the people of Alberta. I was born in Calgary. I talk to Albertans every single day, and they know that our Prime Minister is bringing Canadians together to build big things and to build a stronger economy. Meanwhile, the Conservative leader has spent 20 years in the House, including as a minister, and has built nothing. He continues to divide Canadians and continues to play political games. Now is not a time to play games. It is time for serious leadership and to step up and build Canada strong.”
“Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 32(2) and in accordance with the enhanced transparency requirement set out in the amended policy on the tabling of treaties in Parliament, I am pleased to present to the House of Commons the Government of Canada's objectives for negotiations for a Canada-Philippines free trade agreement. The Government of Canada intends to commence negotiations with the Philippines as soon as it is practical, but, in accordance with the policy, the commencement of negotiations will take place no earlier than 30 days from today.”
“Mr. Speaker, speaking of jobs, we are focused on creating jobs for the good workers in Brampton and across Ontario. The Prime Minister committed $2 billion to build small modular reactors in Ontario, a project that will create 18,000 jobs in Ontario and help build Canada as an energy superpower. We can look at the opportunities we are creating through nuclear exports, a sector valued to create 90,000 jobs in 250 businesses in Ontario. We remain relentlessly focused on creating jobs in nuclear and energy across Ontario communities, including Brampton.”
“Mr. Speaker, through you, I would like to thank the member for his incredible work on the trade file and for representing his constituents so well. We have been talking about our farmers, and I was in different regions across the country, talking to farmers who grow fruits. Of course, the member mentioned Vietnam. It has been a huge market since we signed the CPTPP back a few years ago, in 2018. When we look at what we are doing with Vietnam and the trade numbers, there are incredible opportunities there and we are investing. There is now an agri-food office in Manila in the Philippines to help facilitate even more trade for our farmers, for those who are involved in agriculture and agri-food. There are plenty of opportunities. That is exactly what we are exploring, as I mentioned, with many of the agreements we have talked about today.”
“This is what stakeholders are asking us to do. This is what Canadians are asking us to do. As we sort this out and have those discussions with the U.S., we need to continue opening new markets.”
“Mr. Speaker, I hope to answer my colleague one day in French, as I am learning. I do miss my time on the trade committee with the member opposite. We are in a crisis today, and the Prime Minister has been very clear about this. This is not a speed bump. This is a rupture in the current trading environment. I spent 13 years in international trade prior to politics, facilitating trade for hundreds of businesses. If I were asked back then, I would have said that businesses were not ready to look at global markets because of the conditions that existed at that time with the U.S. Twenty-five years ago, 90% of our trade was with the U.S. It is now around 75%, and we have to move fast. That is exactly what the government is doing. We are moving quickly because we want to make sure that these trade agreements are in place.”
“Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the member for his advocacy for farmers in his region. That is something that I am happy to follow up on with CFIA and Health Canada. Speaking of the agriculture sector, the agreements I have spoken about will unlock new opportunities in markets around the world. We look at the CPTPP trading block, which consists of over 500 million potential consumers. When I am sitting down and talking to those in the agriculture sector, they are excited about the potential that these opportunities create. That is exactly what the government will do. We will continue to be out there opening doors for our farmers and our workers.”
“We are not a country that rests. We are not a country that settles. We are relentless: relentless in our ambition, relentless in our pursuit of new opportunities and relentless in our determination to keep delivering for Canadians. Bill C-13 and the U.K.'s accession to the CPTPP is part of that momentum. It is a continuation of a story that began generations ago and that will carry us forward for generations to come. Let us meet this moment with confidence. Let us meet this moment with optimism. Let us meet with a team Canada approach, united in the conviction that our ambition should be as vast as the opportunities before us and the country we collectively represent here in Parliament, because when Canadians set bold goals, when we work together and when we look outward to the world, there is nothing that we cannot achieve.”
“It is about the Alberta energy workers whose expertise and commitment drive our energy sector forward. It is about the advanced manufacturers in Ontario producing parts for assembly lines in Asia and beyond. It is about the entrepreneurs in Manitoba whose agri-food innovations feed communities around the world. It is about the tourism operator in Prince Edward Island welcoming travellers who discover Canada through international agreements. It is about the tech founders in New Brunswick exporting cybersecurity solutions around the globe. It is about the clean-tech innovator in the Northwest Territories transforming northern engineering into global opportunities. As well, it is about the indigenous artists and cultural entrepreneurs in Yukon sharing creativity and our identity with the world. Canada has achieved extraordinary things.”
“Trade is about people. Let me tell the House who we do this work for. It is about the farmers in Saskatchewan who rise before dawn and work every day to feed families here in Canada and around the world. It is about the shipbuilder in Nova Scotia whose craftsmanship carries Canadian expertise across the Atlantic. It is about the miner in Nunavut supplying the critical minerals the world needs for clean-tech supply chains. It is about the energy in British Columbia, low-carbon energy, reaching new Asian markets and supporting thousands of jobs. It is about the aerospace engineer in Quebec designing components that fly in planes on every continent. It is about the fisheries and the fishermen in Newfoundland and Labrador who bring world-class seafood from cold Atlantic waters to global markets.”
“With our new $5-billion trade diversification infrastructure fund, we will be supporting more growth. To double our non-U.S. exports, we need 21st-century infrastructure capacity that matches our ambition. That is exactly what we plan to deliver. Canadians deserve no less. We also need to support businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises, as they take their first steps into global markets and expand into new ones. That means improving programs, such as the CanExport program, that help companies export, strengthening the services that guide them and continuing to work with partners, provinces and territories, indigenous partners, industry associations, pension funds and financial institutions to create a seamless network of support. This is the path forward. This is how we get from where we are to where we are going.”
“Bill C-13 ensures that Canada is not only part of this moment, but that we are welcoming new partners to the table so that we can shape it together. As we look forward to where we are going, this government has set a bold, ambitious and necessary goal to double Canada's non-U.S. exports to over $300 billion within the next 10 years. Achieving that goal would mean more exports that support good jobs, drive innovation and strengthen communities across every region in our country. To get there, we need to make sure our businesses have the tools they need to succeed. That is why, in budget 2025, we make major investments in Canada's supply chain infrastructure. Exporters can only grow if the roads, rails, ports and airports that they rely on are strong, resilient and efficient.”
“is already one of Canada's most significant trading partners, our third-largest destination for merchandise exports and a top source for investments. With the U.K. joining the CPTPP, Canadian exports will benefit from stronger, more predictable access in areas ranging from seafood to advanced manufacturing, clean technology, services and digital trade. This matters because the CPTPP is a high-standard, rules-based framework that shapes the future of trade in the Indo-Pacific, one of the fastest growing regions in the world. With the U.K. at the table, the CPTPP becomes stronger, more influential and more attractive for future accessions. It expands our reach and it opens new doors for Canadian businesses at a moment when diversification is not optional; it is essential.”
“This is one of the most ambitious trade expansion agendas Canada has ever taken and reflects a simple truth: In a world where supply chains are shifting, where economies are transforming and where competition is intensifying, Canada must lead and never follow. Today we debate trade legislation, Bill C-13 , but as seen from my speech, it will most certainly not be our last. There is much more to come. (1735) We stand at a turning point in the evolution of one of the most important trade agreements on earth: the CPTPP trading bloc. The trading bloc consists of 11 countries, soon to be 12. The United Kingdom's accession to the CPTPP represents the agreement's first expansion. It brings into the fold the world's sixth-largest economy and a long-standing, deeply trusted ally. The U.K.”
“As well, we have announced negotiations for a broader trade agreement with the U.A.E. to deepen access to this powerful market. At the G20, the Prime Minister announced the launch of discussions of an investment agreement with South Africa, the most industrial economy in Africa, strengthening the foundation for Canadian investment in a continent of 1.4 billion potential consumers. We are advancing negotiations on a digital trade agreement with the European Union, a $17-trillion market, ensuring Canadian fintech, AI, cybersecurity and e-commerce firms can compete and grow globally. We have launched discussions on a trade agreement with the Mercosur bloc, which includes Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay, a market of 295 million people with a combined GDP of $2.7 trillion.”
“We are negotiating a trade agreement with the ASEAN bloc, a region of 680 million consumers with a GDP of $3.7 trillion, where Canadian exporters stand to benefit in areas such as clean technology, agriculture and digital services. Staying with ASEAN, we have also advanced bilateral free trade talks with Thailand because its fast-growing economy and rising ties with Canada make this agreement a key opportunity to boost Canadian jobs and open a major market for our businesses. We are advancing trade discussions with India, the world's fifth-largest economy, offering vast opportunities for Canadian companies in education, critical minerals, clean energy and advanced manufacturing. We have signed a foreign investment promotion and protection agreement with the United Arab Emirates, one of Canada's largest trading partners in the Middle East.”
“Since this government was elected, we have relentlessly worked to expand that foundation even further, and we have results to show for it. Canada has signed a free trade agreement with Ecuador, a growing market with which our bilateral trade already exceeds $1 billion annually, opening opportunities for Canadian agri-food exporters, clean-tech innovators and mining service providers. We have signed a comprehensive economic partnership agreement with Indonesia, a G20 member of 278 million people projected to be become the fifth-largest economy in the world, giving Canadian businesses preferential access to a booming consumer market. We will be negotiating a trade agreement with the Philippines, an economy expanding 5% to 6% annually, where a young population is driving new demand for Canadian products.”
“Canada stands as the only G7 country that has free trade agreements with every other member of the G7. Think about what that says about who we are: a nation committed to openness, a nation trusted by its peers and a nation recognized for its reliability in global commerce. Our reach goes far beyond the G7. Canada has 15 free trade agreements with 51 countries, giving our businesses and workers preferential access to 1.5 billion consumers. That extraordinary achievement is the result of decades of work by governments of all stripes, by diplomats, by negotiators and by Canadian businesses and their top-notch workers, who have built our reputation around the world. We are a nation that has embraced openness not as a risk but as a strength. We are a country that knows when Canadians compete on the global stage, we win.”
“Mr. Speaker, I will be splitting my time with the member for Cardigan . I rise today in support of Bill C-13 , legislation that confirms Canada's ratification of the United Kingdom's accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, or the CPTPP. This legislation is part of Canada's ongoing story as one of the world's greatest trading nations. Like any great story, it is important to understand where we have been, where we are today and where we are going. Canada's history is inseparable from trade. Our prosperity has always come from looking outward, engaging with the world and building bridges that connect our people, our products and our ideas with global markets. Over generations, we have built one of the most impressive records of trade leadership of any nation.”
“Mr. Speaker, speaking of facts, including creating opportunities for the workers in Brampton, here are some facts: the Prime Minister secured a $70-billion investment from the U.A.E. into Canada; the German navy has committed $1 billion for Canadian-made defence equipment; Finnish Nokia recently broke ground on a new $340-million facility in Ottawa; and, few weeks ago, Malaysia Petronas signed a 20-year deal to secure energy from Canada. This is what is creating opportunities for workers looks like.”
“Mr. Speaker, speaking about trade, Canadians know that two-thirds of our economy is powered by trade. We are opening doors for Canadian products to reach new global markets. We signed new trade deals with Ecuador and Indonesia, and an investment agreement with the U.A.E., securing a $70-billion commitment for more investments in Canada. That is what this government is focused on: opening new doors and more opportunities for Canadian workers and businesses.”
“Mr. Speaker, speaking of deals, last week it was Germany investing $1 billion in Canadian defence technology. A few days ago, it was the president of the United Arab Emirates securing $70 billion for our industries here, and just today in Ottawa, Finnish Nokia is investing $340 million, supporting thousands of jobs and exporting to over 115 countries. The world is calling, and we are answering.”
“The Government of Canada intends to commence negotiations with Thailand no earlier than 90 days from the date of this notice. Pursuant to Standing Order 32(2), and in accordance with the enhanced transparency requirements related to new free trade agreements introduced in the policy on the tabling of treaties in Parliament in 2020, I am pleased to notify the House of Commons of the Government's intent to initiate negotiations for a Canada-India comprehensive economic partnership agreement. The Government of Canada intends to commence negotiations with India no earlier than 90 days from the date of this notice.”
“Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 32(2), and in accordance with the enhanced transparency requirements set out in the amended policy on the tabling of treaties in Parliament, I am pleased to notify the House of Commons of the government's intent to initiate negotiations for a Canada-United Arab Emirates comprehensive economic partnership agreement. The Government of Canada intends to commence negotiations with the United Arab Emirates no earlier than 90 days from the date of this notice. Pursuant to Standing Order 32(2), and in accordance with the enhanced transparency requirements set out in the amended policy on the tabling of treaties in Parliament, I am pleased to notify the House of Commons of the government's intent to initiate negotiations for a Canada-Thailand free trade agreement.”
“Mr. Speaker, respect for human rights, labour and the environment remains at the heart of our trade policies and our high-standard trade agreements. Canada is deliberate and mindful when negotiating trade agreements, and we prioritize Canadian values. Building new trading partners around the world is an important driver to promote Canadian values, create jobs and encourage economic growth that works for everyone.”
“Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for Sudbury for her tireless work. While the Canada-U.A.E. investment agreement began in 2014, this government finished it in just months, leading to our Prime Minister 's securing the single largest investment commitment of $70 billion. We are now elevating our relationship by negotiating a trade deal to cut tariffs, remove red tape and boost Canadian exports to the U.A.E. We are building new international relationships to grow trade and attract investments to build the fastest-growing economy in the G7.”
“Mr. Speaker, Canadians know two-thirds of our economy is powered by trade. We are opening doors for Canadian products to reach new markets. We have signed new trade deals with Ecuador and Indonesia. We wrapped up an investment agreement with the U.A.E. We are advancing negotiations with ASEAN, the Philippines and Thailand. We have a bill before the House to expand our trade ties with the U.K. We are laser-focused on opening new markets for Canadian workers and businesses.”
“Mr. Speaker, we are taking a team Canada approach to opening new global markets for Canadian workers and businesses. The member opposite should talk to Conservative premiers who applaud the Prime Minister 's leadership on the world stage. Let me quote Premier Moe: “we welcome [the Prime Minister's] efforts to raise Canada's credibility in the international sphere.” Premier Doug Ford thanked the Prime Minister for “getting Canada out front.” Now is not the time to retreat behind curtains like some of the members opposite do. It is time to lean forward and build Canada strong.”
“Mr. Speaker, today our government took another step forward in our commitment to double non-U.S. trade over the next decade and diversity our economy. While in the U.A.E., the Prime Minister signed a foreign investment promotion and protection agreement to create a more predictable environment for two-way investments. We also launched negotiations for a Canada-U.A.E. comprehensive economic partnership trade deal. This agreement would cut tariffs, remove trade barriers and expand market access for Canadian exporters. With a signed FIPA and the launch of CEPA, we are opening doors, creating new markets and creating opportunities for Canadian workers and businesses.”
“Mr. Speaker, we have signed new trade deals with Ecuador and Indonesia. We are advancing trade negotiations with ASEAN, the Philippines and Thailand and are wrapping up a FIPA with the U.A.E. We have legislation before the House to expand our trade ties with the U.K. Together these countries represent 750 million potential consumers. While the Prime Minister is opening doors for workers and businesses, the other side is focused on shutting them.”