May 8, 2002
Ottawa, Ontario
Prime Minister Jean Chrétien today welcomed substantial progress on many
fronts in Canada’s relationship with the European Union (EU), following the
Canada-EU Summit in Toledo, Spain. At the Summit, the Prime Minister met with
President of the Government of Spain, José María Aznar, representing the
Presidency of the Council of the European Union, and the President of the
European Commission, Romano Prodi.
"Canada and Europe are natural allies on many issues. We share a great
deal of history, vibrant trading relations, an adherence to democracy and rights,
and membership in many international organizations," said the Prime
Minister. "These twice yearly Summits provide us with the welcome
opportunity to shape the future of our relationship. I am particularly pleased
that we are strengthening our cooperation in the fight against terrorism and
continuing to seek an expanded trade relationship between Canada and the
European Union. My meetings also gave me a chance to discuss the agenda for the
upcoming G8 Summit, especially plans to reduce the marginalization of Africa
from the global economy."
In a joint statement released at the end of the Summit, the leaders outlined
new areas for cooperation. For example:
Canada and the EU have agreed to strengthen cooperation between judicial and
law enforcement authorities to respond to terrorism and a range of organised
crime offences. They will explore ways to strengthen cooperation in dealing with
illegal migration and the trafficking of human beings and migrants.
Canada and the EU are also discussing ways to facilitate the participation of
Canada in crisis management operations undertaken by the EU under the new
European Security and Defence Policy.
Prime Minister Chrétien used the opportunity of the Summit to brief EU
Leaders on the agenda for the G8 Kananaskis Summit and the goal of endorsing a
concrete Africa Action Plan based on the principles of the New Partnership for
Africa’s Development (NEPAD). The leaders affirmed their commitment to peace
in the Middle East. They also reviewed the situation in Latin America.
In addition, Canada and the EU agreed to work to identify areas for further
cooperation in science and technology.
The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to work together to conclude the WTO
Doha Development Agenda. They reiterated their agreement at the December 2001
Summit to explore all ways to expanding the bilateral trade relationship. Both
are examining barriers to trade. This information will be considered at the next
Summit in Ottawa in December with a view to developing what further steps can be
taken to expand the trade relationship.
The joint statement also noted that Canada and the EU will work to make the
World Summit on Sustainable Development in Johannesburg a success. They will
work together to ensure that policies related to water, energy and other
resources support the goals of poverty reduction and development.
Canada–EU summits are held twice yearly to coincide with the rotating
presidency of the Council of the European Union. Spain holds the presidency
until June 30, 2002. Denmark will take over for the following six months.
- 30 -
PMO Press Office (613) 957-5555
