The following is provided by Global Affairs Canada
At today’s 6th ASEAN Economic Ministers-Canada Consultation in Manila, representatives of all 10 ASEAN member states and Canada together agreed to launch exploratory discussions to determine the potential for an ASEAN-Canada free trade agreement.  Canada is a Pacific nation and is stepping up its strategic commitment to trade diversification by expanding influence and economic footprint in this burgeoning, high-growth region. Canada has taken significant steps to bolster its influence within ASEAN, including by establishing a diplomatic presence in all 10 ASEAN member states and appointing a permanent ambassador to the organization itself. This announcement marks another important milestone in the Canada-ASEAN economic relationship.