Liberal Statement on Free Trade Agreement with the Republic of Korea

March 11, 2014

TORONTO – The Liberal International Trade Critic, Chrystia Freeland, issued the following statement today on the free trade agreement concluded between Canada and the Republic of Korea:

“The Liberal Party of Canada supports free trade, as this is how we open markets to Canadian goods and services, grow export-oriented businesses, create jobs, and provide choice and lower prices to Canadian consumers. We know that an increased emphasis on trade produces the growth that will deliver a real and fair chance for middle class families.

“We are broadly supportive of this free trade agreement between Canada and the Republic of Korea, which will help provide a strong platform for Canadian companies to pursue opportunities more broadly in the Asian-Pacific region. We will take the time to review this agreement in detail.

“This trade deal follows one signed by the United States and Korea years earlier. There will certainly be debate in many quarters during the ratification process of this agreement in Canada. This is appropriate in a democratic society. As always, the Prime Minister has a responsibility to lead this national discussion in an open and transparent manner. We look forward to positively engaging in this debate.”