Minister Raitt highlights the importance of international trade for Canada

Addressed participants at the 2015 Toronto Global Forum

OTTAWA, July 10, 2015 /CNW/ - The Honourable Lisa Raitt, Minister of Transport, was in Toronto today to be part of the celebration marking the start of the Pan American Games, and to address Toronto Global Forum participants on the vital role transportation plays in Canada's economy.

The Minister told forum participants that Canada is facing global change by planning strategically for the future to ensure that transportation networks meet national and international demands. She also highlighted the importance of continuing to strengthen trade through relationships with public and private partners, both in Canada and in the Americas.

Minister Raitt also announced the signing of the first Canada-Brazil Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on civil aviation to promote and expand cooperation, including with the private sector, to the mutual benefit of both countries. This MoU will help bring together key Canadian and Brazilian public and private stakeholders to discuss collaboration and cooperation in areas such as airport development, air navigation, and safety.

Quick Facts

• The Toronto Global Forum is an annual event hosted by the International Economic Forum of the Americas. This year's Forum is taking place from July 8-10, 2015, in Toronto, and coincides with the start of the Pan American Games.
• Canada‑Brazil merchandise trade and investment have seen impressive growth in recent years. Bilateral trade has increased by 35.1% since 2009, reaching $5.6 billion in 2014.
• Brazil was the 6^th highest source of foreign direct investment in Canada in 2013, with Brazilian investment amounting to $18.3 billion. Brazil was the 11^th largest recipient of Canadian direct investment abroad, with $11.1 billion invested as of year‑end 2013.

Quote

"I am pleased to be part of this important platform to exchange ideas and best practices. Canada views increased engagement through trade and commercial-economic ties as one of the best ways to promote sustainable economic growth in the Americas."
The Honourable Lisa Raitt
Minister of Transport

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SOURCE Transport Canada