NEWS RELEASES

July 20, 2005 (5:15 p.m. EDT)
No. 129

INTERNATIONAL TRADE MINISTER PETERSON AND U.S. TRADE REPRESENTATIVE PORTMAN COMMENT ON CURRENT LUMBER TALKS

Canadian and U.S. officials met in Washington, D.C., July 18-20 for discussions on the potential for resolution of the softwood lumber dispute. The discussions allowed for a better understanding of each other's respective positions. Both sides will need time to reflect on the discussions.

"I have asked Canada's negotiating team to continue to seek input from Canadian industry and provinces as we take the necessary time to evaluate the options that have been presented," said International Trade Minister Jim Peterson. "Ambassador Portman and I will be following the issue closely and will continue to remain in close contact."

"This week's talks were a constructive start and gave us a better understanding of each other's positions. Minister Peterson and I have spoken and I am convinced that both sides are serious about seeking to resolve this dispute. We look forward to continuing the talks," said U.S. Trade Representative Rob Portman.

The negotiators intend to use the coming weeks for further consultations with stakeholders and will seek to meet again to discuss the softwood lumber dispute in Ottawa by late August.

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For further information, media representatives may contact:

Andrea Lanthier
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of International Trade
(613) 992-7332

Media Relations Office
International Trade Canada
(613) 995-1874
http://www.international.gc.ca

Richard Mills
Office of the United States Trade Representative
(202) 395-3230