At the end of the meeting with Prime Minister of Canada Stephen Harper in Ottawa, the Colombian Head of State reminded that the agreement between both countries will eliminate double tax paying, will stimulate investment and guarantees full respect for human and labor rights.

Otawa, Canada, June 10 (SP). The President of Colombia, Álvaro Uribe Vélez, said that the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) signed between Colombia and Canada includes elements which guarantee the rights of the workers in the country.

“For us is very important to know – and we want to communicate this to Canada and all Colombians – that this trade agreement with Canada is an agreement that will become an additional guarantee for the rights of the workers” the Leader said, after his meeting with the Prime Minister of Canada, Stephen Harper in the city of Ottawa.

The Head of State highlighted the reach of this agreement, which besides stimulating investment and eliminating double tax paying, guarantees full respect for human rights.

“Our Free Trade Agreement has also very important agreements to stimulate investment, eliminate double tax paying, guarantee full respect for human rights and particularly that chapter of human rights, which is respect for labor rights”, President Uribe highlighted.

In addition, he reminded that labor rights are supported by the Constitution, the Law and bilateral and multilateral agreements.

He added that investment from trade agreements are a great alternative against violence in Colombia, which for many year have subsisted from the production, commercialization and use of illegal drugs.

Fight against terrorism

President Álvaro Uribe also highlighted the commitment of Canada in the fight against terrorism and the support given to Colombia to fight this scourge.

“Canada is a strong country to helps us in the fight against terrorism, its Government has not hesitate to assist us, we feel grateful for the determination of Canada to support us in this fight”, the Leader pointed.