Global Affairs Canada is delighted to highlight the effective global engagements undertaken by Maninder Sidhu, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade, and Economic Development. Mr. Sidhu has been active on the international stage, notably at the 2024 Ministerial Council Meeting of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in Paris, France.
During the OECD Ministerial Council Meeting, Mr. Sidhu underscored Canada’s strategy for fostering inclusive and sustainable economic growth. He advocated for equitable international business practices and capitalizing on digital and green transitions. Additionally, Mr. Sidhu was a key supporter of expanding OECD’s partnerships, particularly endorsing Indonesia’s potential membership and celebrating a new cooperation memorandum between the OECD and the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia.
Mr. Sidhu met with Ambassador Solano in Ottawa, where they had a fruitful discussion about strengthening economic ties between Canada and Costa Rica. This meeting aimed to further enhance industrial growth and job creation through trade, building on the robust commercial relationship that saw bilateral trade exceed $1.04 billion last year.
Mr. Sidhu also participated in an informal gathering of World Trade Organization (WTO) ministers in Australia, where the focus was on reinforcing the rules-based international trading system and building on the outcomes of the WTO’s 13th Ministerial Conference.
As the OECD meeting wrapped up, Canada committed, along with other member nations, to maintain and strengthen the rules-based international trading system. This commitment involves bolstering economic resilience, security, and supply chain sustainability, which are crucial for a robust, sustainable, and inclusive future for global economies.
In his statement, Mr. Sidhu reiterated Canada’s dedication to its trade and economic goals. “Canada continues to be committed as we closely collaborate with our OECD and WTO partners on common priorities, deepening relationships, fostering mutual understanding, and enhancing cooperation. We also remain strong advocates for greater diversity and inclusion. These meetings were invaluable for Canada to participate actively in discussions that are vital for strengthening the rules-based trading system, addressing global challenges, and supporting good jobs for people around the world,” said Mr. Sidhu.