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Harper Hopes to Ink Free Trade Agreement with South Korea

Garima Goswami, Darpan, 10 Mar, 2014 11:51 AM

    The talks have been taking rounds since 2005 and were stalled in 2008, but it seems that Canada is just on the verge of signing a free trade agreement with South Korea. Prime Minister Stephen Harper who is on a trip to South Korea is expected to complete another round of free-trade negotiations.

    While the agreement is being welcomed by Canada's agriculture industry, Canada's automakers have been fighting against it.

    Union leaders and auto executives are warning of a "flood" of Kias and Hyundais on the Canadian streets if the 6.1% tariff currently imposed on Korean vehicles is phased out.  

    Reports suggest that the news on the free trade agreement is expected to be announced Monday night.

    "I look forward to meeting with President Park Geun-hye to discuss ways of further strengthening this already vibrant relationship," Harper mentioned in a statement to media. "By working to increase trade, investment and cooperation, we are confident that the Canada-Korea friendship will continue to flourish in the years to come, creating a strong basis for more jobs and growth in both countries."