Columbia International Affairs Online: Working Papers

CIAO DATE: 12/2012

Forging a New Strategic Partnership between Canada and Mexico

Perrin Beatty, Andrés Rozental

November 2012

Centre for International Governance Innovation

Abstract

The visit to Ottawa by Mexico’s President-elect Enrique Pena Nieto the week of November 26, provides Canada with the opportunity to elevate its bilateral relationship with Mexico to the level of a strategic partnership. Bilateral trade and investment have increased steadily since Canada signed the North American Free Trade Agreement, but there remains enormous, untapped potential, particularly in Mexico. This report offers substantive recommendations that point to the benefit of efforts that will intensify bilateral partnerships, not only in their own right, but also in strengthening both countries’ ability to deal more effectively with the United States in pursuing matters of mutual concern.