For instance, with world trade in agriculture and food products expected to grow by more than 250 billion U.S. dollars by 2005. That s not very far ahead. Both Canadian and American trade negotiators will be working hard to secure increased market access so our farmers and our processors can take advantage of new opportunities around the world. In addition, we want to eliminate trade-distorting export subsidies as fast as we possibly can. But, trade is only part of the equation in securing jobs and prosperity for our citizens in both of our countries.
Investment is also vital.
If companies, sectors and a country s economy are going to continue to grow and strengthen, investment is vital. In Canada, I m proud to say we are approaching the world from a new position of fiscal strength. A 42-billion dollar deficit in the United States would not be that great. But in Canada, we needed to put it in perspective. Our interest rates are at their lowest levels in 30 years, and both the IMF and the OECD are predicting Canada will be a top economic performer in the G-7 in 1999.