"The United States is Canada's largest trading partner and a close ally. News that Canada, the U.S and Mexico have reached a new trade agreement is a positive milestone to our shared prosperity. On behalf of FCM, I extend our appreciation to the Canadian negotiation team, including Minister of Foreign Affairs Chrystia Freeland and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, on their work to reach this important development.
"Canadian cities and communities play an important role building our cross border relationships. And on both sides of the border, municipalities require certainty and predictability in Canada-U.S. trade. Members of FCM's Big City Mayors Caucus travelled to Washington DC earlier this year to help make the case for a continued free trade agreement between Canada and the U.S. and to build on those prosperous relationships.
"As we review the details of this agreement, we will be listening to our members to ensure their concerns are shared with the federal government. Specifically, we will be looking to ensure procurement and dispute resolution mechanisms support the liveable communities we are working to build. We are also encouraged by the Prime Minister's confirmation that the federal government will examine compensation for affected sectors here in Canada to ensure workers and families are supported.
"On both sides of the border, the mutual benefits of a strong and fair economic partnership between Canada and the United States are clear. FCM will continue to advocate for the needs of Canadian cities and communities to ensure our continued prosperity under this new international trade agreement."
Vicki-May Hamm is President of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) and Mayor of the City of Magog, QC. FCM is the national voice of local government, with nearly 2,000 members representing more than 90 per cent of Canada’s population.