NEWS RELEASES
PETTIGREW RESPONDS TO PARLIAMENTARY COMMITTEE REPORT ON KEY ISSUES FOR CANADA AT THE WTO
October 3, 2002 (4:15 p.m. EDT) No. 113
PETTIGREW RESPONDS TO PARLIAMENTARY COMMITTEE
REPORT ON KEY ISSUES FOR CANADA AT THE WTO
On behalf of International Trade Minister Pierre Pettigrew, Pat O'Brien (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister
for International Trade) today presented in the House of Commons the federal government's response to
Parliament concerning negotiations at the World Trade Organization (WTO).
The response directly answers 29 recommendations made by a parliamentary committee, the Standing
Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade (SCFAIT), in a report entitled Building an Effective New
Round of WTO Negotiations: Key Issues for Canada.
"Last December, I invited SCFAIT to undertake an analysis on major elements of the WTO Doha Development
Agenda. Their valuable report confirms Canada's objectives in WTO negotiations. Our response emphasizes
that a rules-based trade system provides solid economic opportunities for Canada and promotes a climate of
prosperity, democracy and social stability worldwide," said Minister Pettigrew.
"I am confident that by continuing cooperative dialogue during WTO negotiations, we can create a more level
playing field for all member countries and allow Canada to achieve its global economic, political and social
objectives," added the Minister.
The Government of Canada has made parliamentary and citizen engagement an integral part of its trade policy
agenda, reflecting Canadians' priorities and interests, and a commitment to fairness, stability and good
governance. Consultations will continue as the negotiating process evolves in order to further refine Canada's
position.
The complete report can be found on the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade's Trade
Negotiations Web site at: http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/tna-nac/gov_response-e.asp
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For further information, media representatives may contact:
| Sébastien Théberge
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister for International Trade
(613) 992-7332
http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca |
Media Relations Office
Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
(613) 995-1874 |
| 
