Any trade deal with Canada must take full account of Caricom interests – LaRocque

Irwin La Rocque

Caricom’s negotiations with Canada for a new trade agreement must take full account of the bloc’s interests, given the differences in size and levels of development, says Cari-com Secretary-General Irwin LaRocque.

LaRocque delivered the first of opening remarks yesterday during the 38th session of the Carib-     bean Community’s (CARICOM’s) Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED), held at the Pegasus Hotel.

His statement comes amidst the backdrop of charges by Canada that the Community is not bringing “ambition” to trade negotiations. An article appearing earlier this month in the Jamaican Gleaner quotes Canada’s Department of Foreign Affairs Trade and Development (DFATD) spokeswoman, Caitlin Workman,