European Parliament’s International Trade Committee backs CETA

The European Parliament’s International Trade Committee backs the CETA trade accord between the EU and Canada, an important step toward ratification. The EPP Group’s MEP Artis Pabriks, says that the European Union and Canada should show that they are open, forward-looking and ready to take on challenges. Pabriks approved the EU-Canada comprehensive, economic trade agreement and said that CETA can serve as a model for other 21-century trade deals.

“From a content perspective, it is a very good example of how we could go forward with other trade deals. While other are hesitant, Europe should take the chance and lead,” confirms Pabriks. He also says that businesses large and small will boost trade by 20 percent when CETA slashes export tariffs by half a billion Euros. The agreement is now set for a final Parliamentary vote in February.

EPP Group Chairman, Manfred Weber, welcomes what he sees as a balanced agreement. He declares that the public debate on CETA has been a very intensive one, but that it is extremely important and positive. Weber explains that the agreement today clarifies the fears and concerns of the people.

CETA will also enable small and medium size EU business to trade with Canada, it will establish one website portal to compete for public service contracts and it will simplify recognition of professional qualifications.