OTTAWA - The following statement was released by Mayor Brad Woodside President of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) regarding the announcement of the Canada-EU trade agreement:
"FCM welcomes the annoucement of the release of the final text of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement CETA and the Government of Canada is to be commended for working in partnership with us to protect municipal rights and perspectives.
A CETA agreement will lead to new opportunities for both investments into our cities and communities as well as greater access to European markets for our local businesses. Municipalities play a key role in Canada's economic success, and this agreement enables cities and communities to attract jobs and promote businesses at home and abroad.
We believe the agreement is consistent with FCM's principles for free and fair international trade aimed at protecting local governments' interests. The federal government has committed to continue working with FCM on implementation details of the agreement and we look forward to a continued partnership."