The Government of Canada is committed to strengthening its relationship with its European partners and expanding economic avenues for Canada.
Today, the Honourable Joël Lightbound, Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement, and the Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, announced the signing of a General Security of Information Agreement (GSOIA) with Portugal. The formal signing of the GSOIA took place in Lisbon, with Ambassador Élise Racicot representing Canada and Ms. Helena Malcata, Director-General for Foreign Policy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, representing Portugal.
Canada and Portugal share a long diplomatic history based on significant people-to-people ties and common values that underpin cooperation on regional and global issues. The two countries share a strong commitment to democracy, human rights and the rules-based international order, promoting effective multilateralism to develop effective responses to today's most pressing global challenges. Portugal is also an important trade partner and export market for Canada, with bilateral merchandise trade exceeding $3.2 billion in 2024.