Today, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development, spoke with Julio José Prado, Ecuador's Minister of Production, Foreign Trade, Investments and Fisheries.
Minister Ng and Minister Prado discussed Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine, and Minister Ng expressed her appreciation for Ecuador's condemnation of the Russian invasion.
The Ministers also discussed the strong partnership between Canada and Ecuador based on a shared commitment to democracy, human rights and an international rules-based trading system.
The ministers highlighted their countries' rapidly growing trade and investment relationship, emphasizing that Canada is now the largest foreign investor in Ecuador, due largely to responsible investments in the mining sector.
Minister Ng welcomed a discussion on potential avenues to advance Canada-Ecuador trade and investment relations and noted Ecuador's application to accede to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership. The minister also invited Ecuador to join Canada, Chile, Mexico and New Zealand in the Inclusive Trade Action Group and the Global Trade and Gender Arrangement, initiatives that demonstrate a commitment to inclusive trade and gender equality.
Minister Ng highlighted the opportunities and potential for Canadian companies to do business in Ecuador. She emphasized the work that will continue through Canada's Trade Commissioner Service to deepen bilateral commercial ties and contribute to post-pandemic economic recovery for both countries.
