Minister Ng speaks with Germany’s Minister of Economic Affairs and Climate Action, Dr. Robert Habeck

Today, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development, met virtually for the first time with Germany’s Minister of Economic Affairs and Climate Action, Dr. Robert Habeck.

Minister Ng and Minister Habeck reiterated their strong support for Ukraine and discussed the importance of Canada and Germany’s collaboration in collective international economic sanctions against Russia. The Ministers also condemned President Putin’s unjustifiable and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine.  Minister Ng noted that this is an attack on international law, including the UN Charter, as well as democracy, freedom, and human rights.

Minister Ng stressed the importance of continued G7 solidarity in responding to President Putin’s aggressive actions. She also welcomed the opportunity to advance shared trade priorities as part of Germany’s G7 Presidency this year, including at the upcoming G7 Trade and Investment Ministers’ Meeting on March 23. The Ministers conveyed their commitment to the conclusion of multilateral WTO negotiations at the upcoming MC12.

Minister Ng highlighted that Canada and Germany are trusted and reliable trading partners, with a strong and diverse bilateral and commercial relationship. She affirmed her commitment to working with Germany to strengthen trade relations through the Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). The Ministers agreed to continue working together towards a strong, inclusive, and sustainable shared global recovery.