Paris, France – Maninder Sidhu, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development was in Paris, France, to meet international partners and participate in the 2024 Ministerial Council Meeting of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
Parliamentary Secretary Sidhu highlighted Canada’s approach to inclusive and sustainable economic growth. He also noted that Canada is supporting a level global playing field for international business and harnessing the opportunities brought about by the digital and green transitions to foster economic growth and social progress.
Parliamentary Secretary Sidhu also reiterated Canada’s support for the OECD’s growing partnership with Africa and deeper engagement in the Indo-Pacific, including the organization’s recent decision to explore membership for Indonesia. He also celebrated the announcement of the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the OECD and the Economic Research Institute for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and East Asia. This milestone aligns with Canada’s goals in its Indo-Pacific Strategy.
On the margins of the meeting, Parliamentary Secretary Sidhu participated in an Australia-hosted informal gathering of World Trade Organization (WTO) ministers. The gathering focused on strengthening the rules-based international trading system and advancing outstanding work following the WTO’s 13th Ministerial Conference.
At the conclusion of the OECD Ministerial Meeting Canada and other members committed to maintaining and strengthening the rules-based international trading system by enhancing collaboration on economic resilience, economic security and supply chain resilience. These commitments will ensure a strong, sustainable and inclusive future.
“Canada remains unwavering in its dedication to its trade and economic priorities as we collaborate closely with our OECD and WTO partners on shared priorities to deepen relations, promote mutual understanding and strengthen cooperation while advocating for greater diversity and inclusion. These meetings were a great opportunity for Canada to actively engage on important issues to strengthen the rules-based trading system, address global challenges and support good jobs for workers around the world.” – Maninder Sidhu, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development