After a strong start, the 2021 UK-Canada Forum held two productive meetings in May and June focused on security and trade.

The Forum aims to bring members of both national parliaments together to discuss the latest developments in domestic and global policy, and advance effective cooperation in areas of mutual interest. It is co-hosted by CPA UK and the Canada-UK Inter-Parliamentary Association (RUUK) and co-chaired by Ian Liddell-Grainger MP and the Hon. John McKay, the respective chairs of CPA UK and RUUK. 

“In these challenging times, dialogue and friendship are more important than ever. The Forum has allowed Canadian and UK parliamentarians from across the political spectrum to come together in an informal environment to discuss key global issues such as trade, defence and the COVID-19 pandemic. Through these conversations, we have discovered fresh perspectives, explored potential areas of cooperation and cemented the historic ties between our two countries. I cannot overstate the value of these meetings and look forward to their continued success.” - The Hon. John McKay M.P. Chair of RUUK, Parliament of Canada

“The sustained high levels of interest in the UK-Canada Forum is a testament to the appetite for maintaining and enhancing the bonds that exist between our parliaments, from members of all backgrounds and political traditions. The rich dialogue we have had across a myriad of topics could easily run for hours beyond the time that is available to us. I am confident this series will continue to provide an excellent opportunity for exploring new areas of shared interest with our Canadian colleagues in the coming months.” - Ian Liddell-Grainger MP, Chair of CPA UK, UK Parliament

Exploring Shared Security Interests

On 18 May, members from the UK and Canadian parliaments came together via Zoom to discuss shared security interests. Specific topics covered included the UK’s recent Integrated Review, Cybersecurity, and Defence, with special focus given to policy towards Russia and the Baltic States.

Sharing Expertise on Trade Agreements

On 28 June the dialogue continued, this time centred on trade. This complimented CPA UK’s Workshop Series on Trade Agreements, held throughout June. The British High Commissioner to Canada, Ms le Jeune d'Allegeershecque, and the Canadian High Commissioner to the UK, the Hon. Mr Goodale, joined this Forum meeting, providing the official welcome and participating in the discussions. Topics covered included bilateral trade between the UK and Canada, the role of Cybersecurity and Digital Services, and the Northern Ireland Protocol.

Members paid tribute to the years of service Ms le Jeune d'Allegeershecque has given to both countries in her role, ahead of her leaving post in August, and they expressed their warm welcome to the Hon. Mr Goodale in his new post, following his appointment in April.

CPA UK looks forward to partnering with RUUK to deliver future events in the Autumn.