Paet stated that the Estonia-Canada youth exchange agreement that came into effect on 1 August also provides a good opportunity to develop co-operation between education institutions and businesses in the two countries, as well as boost competitiveness. “The agreement offers young people more opportunities to supplement their academic or vocational education, gain work experience, and become familiar with another nation’s culture and society,” stated Foreign Minister Paet.
Thanks to the agreement, young people have the opportunity to work in the host country and receive supplementary education for advancing their careers on the basis of a pre-arranged work contract. Students and university students can complete the pre-determined internship or studies in the host country.
In 2009, Canada was in 19th place in terms of total turnover among Estonia’s trade partners. Last year Estonia imported goods valuing 166 million kroons (10.6 million EUR) from Canada, and import to Canada reached 2 006 million kroons (128.2 million EUR). The large trade surplus is due to the export of mineral fuels that do not meet the European Union standards. In addition to energy sources, Estonia also sells machinery and equipment, animal products, and prepared food and drink products to Canada.
Foreign Minister Urmas Paet also met with Speaker of the Canadian House of Commons Peter Milliken. The foreign minister visited a session of the House of Commons as well.
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