Prime Minister Trudeau Discusses Trade at APEC Summit
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau arrived in Lima, Peru on November 18 for the beginning of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit. Once there, he met with various world leaders to discuss diplomacy, the possible salvation of the Trans-Pacific Partnership, and the future of interregional cooperation. In the face of increasing uncertainty regarding the future of trade, Trudeau highlighted the importance of free trade and economic liberalism while re-asserting Canada’s commitment to the international market. In the aftermath of the recent U.S. elections, Trudeau primarily aimed to ensure the possibility of bilateral relations. In order to do so, the Prime Minister privately met with Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto, Peruvian President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski, and U.S. President Barack Obama.
With the current form of North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in jeopardy, Trudeau’s meeting with Peña Nieto became especially important. The two nations ratified a bilateral compromise to continue free trade and open economic relations. They also pledged to loosen visa requirements and travel restrictions. Both leaders enthusiastically expressed interest in continued close cooperation and friendly, diplomatic relations.
Trudeau also met with Peruvian President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski in order to discuss their countries’ continued cooperation in free trade, environmental mining practices, and development projects. Trudeau expressed renewed support for Peru’s desired incorporation in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), and emphasized Canada’s desire to continue state-funded projects in Peru to improve infrastructure, education, and conditions for small business.
Trudeau and President Obama met on the final day of the conference to discuss the future of U.S.-Canada relations and ease any concerns over the presidential transition. The meeting marks Obama’s final international visit before the end of his presidency and reasserts the close of an amiable friendship between the two leaders.
Though not traditionally a significant trade competitor with the United States, Canada’s pursuit of bilateral relations with various Latin American nations coincides with free trade policies it has taken recently in an attempt to become a more significant competitor in the world market. With the possible withdrawal of US.. trade presence in Latin America, countries like China and Canada can be expected to fill the void and change the face of commerce in the region.
