Minister Sidhu strengthens Canada’s trade and investment ties with Association of Southeast Asian Nations

This week, the Honourable Maninder Sidhu, Minister of International Trade, concluded his participation in the Fifteenth Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Economic Ministers-Canada Meeting, in Manila, the Philippines, further strengthening Canada's presence in the Indo-Pacific. Minister Sidhu advanced negotiations toward free trade agreements with both the Philippines and ASEAN during his visit. His meetings with senior Filipino government and business leaders brought a bilateral agreement that will unlock new opportunities for Canadian businesses and workers closer to conclusion. Minister Sidhu also progressed negotiations toward a Canada-ASEAN free trade agreement, which will open doors to one of the world’s fastest-growing regional markets.