Joint Statement on CETA by Commissioner Malmström and Canada’s Minister of International Trade Chrystia Freeland

Ahead of this week’s meeting of EU Trade Ministers in Bratislava, Commissioner Malmström and her Canadian counterpart Chrystia Freeland have underlined the progressive and forward-looking nature of the EU-Canada Comprehensive Trade and Economic Agreement (CETA), which will set a new standard for international trade. In a joint statement, the two stressed that “Now is the time to build bridges, not walls”, adding: “We look forward to meeting this week in Bratislava, Slovakia with colleagues from all the 28 EU Member States to discuss CETA’s benefits.  We understand that some concerns remain that need to be clarified.  Where formal clarifications are needed to allay concerns we are committed to providing these, including confirming our shared views on the delivery of public services, labour rights and environmental protection.  We also have a strong, shared commitment to monitor carefully the improved investment dispute settlement mechanism included in CETA to ensure it operates in a truly independent manner.” Read the full statement here. Also, today in Brussels, Commissioner Malmström will participate in a Civil Society Dialogue on the benefits for citizens of CETA, where over 160 representatives of civil society organisations have registered to participate.