Canada set to become strategic partner with ASEAN bloc, symbolizing trade progress
CTV
Canada's status within the Indo-Pacific region is set to get a boost as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations prepares to make Ottawa its latest strategic partner when Prime Minister Justin Trudeau visits Indonesia.
Canada's status within the Indo-Pacific region is set to get a boost as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations prepares to make Ottawa its latest strategic partner when Prime Minister Justin Trudeau visits Indonesia.
The move by the organization is a symbolic gesture that recognizes Canada's expanded presence in the region and reflects the progress being made on a Canada-ASEAN free-trade agreement.
The partnership will be ratified when Trudeau is in Jakarta on Tuesday and Wednesday alongside Trade Minister Mary Ng.
Trudeau left Ottawa Sunday evening with his son Xavier.
During his visit, he will meet with Indonesian President Joko Widodo to discuss fighting climate change, food security and advancing economic ties -- part of which includes energy production and trade.
The launch of the ASEAN-Canada strategic partnership will take place on Wednesday, with Trudeau also expected to deliver remarks.
"The ASEAN believes engagement with Canada is much deeper than it perhaps used to be," Wayne Farmer, president of the Canada-ASEAN Business Council, said in an interview from Jakarta, Indonesia.
