Ottawa: On September 22, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau inked an updated Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and several bilateral agreements with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during the latter's working visit to Canada. Trudeau hailed the modernized FTA with Ukraine as a means to provide Canadian businesses with increased access, contributing to Ukraine's economic recovery.
Trudeau stated on social media, "We’ve just signed the modernized Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement. This deal supports long-term security, stability, and economic development in Ukraine – and helps ensure high-quality market access for Canadian businesses participating in Ukraine’s economic recovery." According to Ukraine's President's official website, this FTA aims to create a favorable environment for economic relations between the two nations. It will facilitate trade in goods and services, encourage investment, and foster a competitive market economy aligned with national priorities. The FTA also seeks to boost key industries, implement systemic reforms, and enhance the overall well-being of the population.
Zelenskyy's visit to Canada followed his recent address to the UN General Assembly in Washington, D.C., and included an address to the Canadian Parliament. He expressed gratitude to Canada for its support during the conflict with Russia, noting that Canadian assistance had saved numerous lives. He emphasized Canada's significant role as one of Ukraine's largest donors. Zelenskyy also thanked Canada for its decision to participate in F-16 pilot training for Ukrainian soldiers, an announcement made by Trudeau on the same day. Trudeau revealed that Canada would send instructors to train Ukrainian pilots and service personnel on F-16 fighter jets.
In addition to the FTA and military support, Canada and Ukraine have agreed to establish a working group with G7 partners to explore the seizure and forfeiture of Russian assets, including those of the Russian Central Bank. Canada pledged to stand alongside Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia and committed to providing 650 million Canadian dollars in new military assistance over the next three years. The support package includes 50 armored vehicles, 35 drones with high-resolution cameras, light vehicles, and ammunition. Trudeau also disclosed plans for Canada to contribute funds for Ukraine's national war memorial and allocate resources to enhance mental health support when needed.
Notably, Trudeau faces domestic criticism in Canada for initiating a diplomatic conflict with India and suspending FTA negotiations indefinitely. The dispute arose over allegations by Canada, led by Trudeau, that India was involved in the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada. Even before these allegations, Canada had halted trade negotiations with India due to disagreements on certain issues. Canada had also canceled a planned trade mission to India in October, citing objections to certain political developments. It has since been revealed that India's concerns about growing Khalistani activities in Canada contributed to the pause in negotiations.
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