Canada Border Services Agency Signs Mutual Recognition Arrangements with Hong Kong and New Zealand

Shantel Harris -
W a s h i n g t o n ,   D C ,   U S A - 

Credit: Canada Border Services Agency

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) today announced the signing of two Mutual Recognition Arrangements (MRAs) with the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department and with the New Zealand Customs Service regarding their respective Trusted Trader programs.

The signings took place on the margins of the World Customs Organization Council Sessions in Brussels, Belgium.

Trusted Trader programs enhance the security and integrity of the global supply chain through the establishment of customs to business partnerships and by providing streamlined border processes to pre-approved, low-risk traders. MRAs not only enhance supply chain security, but strengthens Canada’s economic competitiveness by facilitating trade at the border.

Each MRA signifies that the CBSA’s Partners in Protection program members will be recognized by, and receive trade facilitation benefits from, the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department’s Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programme and the New Zealand Customs Service’s Secure Exports Scheme (SES) program, respectively. The CBSA will reciprocate by providing similar benefits to members of Hong Kong’s AEO programme and New Zealand’s SES program.

Credit: Canada Border Services Agency

Border management is a shared international responsibility. Threats and opportunities arising from global migration and trade are dealt with most effectively by working together. Expanding the international network of accredited low-risk companies allows customs administrations to focus on targeting shipments of higher or unknown risk.

John Ossowski, President of the Canada Border Services Agency said:

“The CBSA is a fully engaged member of the World Customs Organization, regularly sharing best practices and lessons learned with our international partners, such as Hong Kong and New Zealand. Putting in place Mutual Recognition Arrangements with international partners is a reflection of the great cooperation between customs administrations and represents a major component of the CBSA’s International Strategic Framework to advance global border management.”

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UK Calls for Progress in Reforming Global Trade Rules at G20

Peter Thomas -
L o n d o n ,   U K - 

International Trade Secretary will champion the importance of a strong, forward-looking approach to WTO reform at the G20 Ministerial meeting in Japan.

Dr Liam Fox, International Trade Secretary, is attending the G20 Ministerial meeting on Trade and Digital Economy in Tsukuba, Japan.

Top of the UK Government’s agenda will be addressing global trade tensions and seeking a resolution to issues around the WTO Appellate Body.

The WTO Appellate Body resolves global trade disputes in a fair and transparent way, however it now faces significant challenges including the pace of decision-making and the stalemate in the appointment of Appellate Body members.

Dr Fox will also be encouraging countries to ensure the global trading system is fit for the 21st century for example by making progress in creating new rules for digital trade.

International Trade Secretary Dr Liam Fox said:

“The UK is one of the strongest defenders of the international rules-based system and we will continue to champion a strong, forward-looking approach to reform the World Trade Organization."

“Top of my agenda at the G20 meeting this weekend will be addressing global trade tensions, seeking a resolution to issues around the WTO Appellate Body, and making real progress on digital trade rules that are fit for the 21st century."

“With the global economy facing significant headwinds, now is the time for governments to come together to ensure a predictable and transparent environment for businesses to trade and invest in each other’s economies. This is crucial the shared prosperity of billions of people around the world".

During their discussions, Trade ministers will be considering recommendations made by the B20 international business group, which is comprised of businesses representatives from G20 countries.

Following a summit in Tokyo in March, the B20 has called on the G20 to renew their commitment to the rules-based trading system and to update the global trade rules so they work better for today’s economy and help all countries to develop.

The CBI represented the UK at the Tokyo Summit and led a delegation of British businesses, including BT and Diageo.

Ben Digby, CBI International Director, said:

“British businesses, both big and small, rely on the WTO as an independent arbiter, providing transparency and certainty, as they trade highly sought-after goods and services in markets across the globe. But the WTO is heading into choppy waters, with the Appellate Body facing risk of collapse in a few months."

“Firms may lose the closest thing they have to a level playing field, and there is a danger the WTO quietly turns into an organisation without the means of enforcing its rules, leaving firms high and dry in key global markets."

“Business now has a golden opportunity to shape the WTO, and future proof it for the globalised twenty-first century. We strongly support the Government’s efforts to deliver a multilateral solution that protects our shared rules and want a firm commitment that G20 leaders will support them too."

Bas Burger, CEO of BT’s Global division, said:

“As a provider of secure communications services to the top multinationals across 180 countries, rules-based international trade is crucial to BT and our partners. Our services enable business customers to move ever increasing volumes of data seamlessly and safely around the globe."

“Trade rules need to keep pace. A system fit for the today’s economy must fully embrace the digital trade and e-commerce which telecoms services underpin. All parties must work together to ensure the updated rules are fair, transparent and enforceable."

Wilson Del Socorro, Global Director of Government Affairs of Diageo, said:

“Trade is the lifeblood of Diageo. Our brands are sold in 180 countries and so we require a global trading system that will help to grow our brands for the future."

“We welcome the dialogue to improve the international trading order and like other businesses are actively engaging in the broader policy discussions, such as the B20, to ensure that the rules governing trade remain fit for purpose."

Dr Max Mendez-Parra, Senior Research Fellow, Overseas Development Institute, said:

“The international rules-based system has been key in facilitating the operation of the trade, investment and development links that have benefitted many developing countries in the last two decades. The G20 leaders must make a strong commitment to enhance and update the multilateral rules and institutions to continue their operation."

G20 leaders, including Prime Minister Theresa May, agreed in Buenos Aires last December to support the necessary reform of the WTO. The 2019 G20 Summit Meeting will see leaders meet in Osaka on 28-29 June.

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Canada Eliminates Countermeasures as the United States Lifts Tariffs on Canadian Steel and Aluminum

Shantel Harris -
O t t o w a ,   O n t a r i o ,   C a n a d a - 

The Honourable Bill Morneau PC MP

When the United States imposed unjustified tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum, the Government of Canada stood up for our country's steel and aluminum workers, industries, and communities – imposing reciprocal, dollar-for-dollar countermeasures against imports of steel, aluminum, and other products from the U.S., to encourage the full removal of the U.S. tariffs.

Canada stood firm and did not back down until this outcome was achieved on Friday, May 17, when the U.S. announced that it would eliminate tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum within two days. Canada also agreed to eliminate its countermeasures against the U.S.

Consequently, Finance Minister Bill Morneau announced that effective today, Canada is lifting its retaliatory countermeasures against the U.S.

These recent actions taken by Canada and the U.S. will allow our closely linked economies to be more competitive around the world, creating good, well-paying jobs for our citizens, and improving our combined security.

The Government of Canada will continue to ensure that Canada's steel and aluminum industry and workers have the support they need to be competitive and to succeed, building on the more than $2 billion in program support already in place.

Bill Morneau, Minister of Finance said:

“With these developments, Canadian and American businesses can now get back to what they do best: working together constructively and supporting good, well-paying middle class jobs on both sides of the border. The removal of tariffs and countermeasures is a true win-win for everyone involved, and great news for Canadian and American workers, for our communities, and our economies."

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UK Host Australia-UK Ministerial Talks

Peter Thomas -
L o n d o n ,   U K - 

Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt and
the Honourable Julie Bishop

Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt and Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson host their Australian counterparts this week for AUKMIN 2018.

The UK Government will host Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Julie Bishop and Australian Minister for Defence Marise Payne in the UK for the 10th Australia-United Kingdom Ministerial Consultations (AUKMIN) on Friday 20 July 2018.

Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt and Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson will join their counterparts for discussions of high level foreign policy, defence and security issues between the United Kingdom and Australia. This AUKMIN marks over a decade since the talks began and is a chance for both nations to reflect on the enormous progress made over that time.

Speaking ahead of the talks Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said:

“Australia is one of the UK’s closest allies and I am delighted to be co-hosting Foreign Minister Bishop and Defence Minister Payne so soon after being appointed as Foreign Secretary. Our relationship with Australia is based on shared history, interests and values, and we have a dynamic modern friendship including a significant exchange of people and goods. The recent commissioning of nine warships from BAE, to be manufactured in Australia, is a sterling example of this relationship in action."

“I look forward to our continued work together on global challenges and opportunities - based on our shared respect for the rules-based international system. The fight against extremism and terror, eliminating modern slavery and encouraging global co-operation will be top of the agenda during this tenth AUKMIN. Talks with businesses and government on boosting trade between us when we leave the EU will also be a top priority."

Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said:

“We are entering an exciting new era for Britain and Australia with our two nations having one of the strongest relationships in the world. With both our world class Armed Forces respected and present all over the globe, defence is one of the pillars of our deep and enduring relationship."

“The £20 billion Global Combat Ship deal between BAE Systems and the Australian Government demonstrates how defence and our Armed Forces are not just vital to keeping us safe but also crucial to delivering prosperity, jobs, and keeping our two countries at the height of innovation and advanced manufacturing. I look forward to strengthening our historic defence relationship further this week."

The United Kingdom has a strong and dynamic relationship with Australia underpinned by common values, shared heritage and a closely aligned strategic outlook. Military ties between the 2 nations are deep and long-standing, including a range of operational and intelligence activities such as joint-operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. The recent awarding of a £20 billion contract from the Australian Government to BAE Systems to build nine British Type 26 Global Combat Ships is a demonstration of the relationship between the 2 countries creating a safer world.

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RAF Typhoons intercept Russian Aircraft over the North Sea: UK Jets from RAF Lossiemouth Respond

Peter Thomas -
L o n d o n ,   U K - 

Typhoon fighter aircraft scrambled from RAF
Lossiemouth, with an RAF Voyager from Brize
Norton, to monitor two Russian Blackjacks
approaching UK airspace. Crown copyright.

RAF Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) Typhoon fighter aircraft scrambled from RAF Lossiemouth, with an RAF Voyager from Brize Norton, to monitor two Russian Blackjacks approaching UK airspace.

The RAF worked closely with NATO partners to monitor the Russian aircraft as they passed through a variety of international airspace before they were intercepted over the North Sea. Our fighters escorted them from the UK’s area of interest and ensured that they did not enter UK sovereign airspace.

Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said:

“Our brave RAF pilots have shown again that we are ready to respond to any threat to the UK. Alongside our NATO allies, we must remain vigilant and aware of Russian military activity."

The RAF routinely identify, intercept and escort Russian aircraft that transit international airspace within proximity to the UK’s area of interest and continue to be on call every day. This is the second time this week RAF aircraft have taken to the air to investigate Russian activity, following a similar incident on Wednesday evening, but on that occasion, an intercept by the Typhoons was not necessary.

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UK Recognises Juan Guaido as Interim President of Venezuela

Peter Thomas -
L o n d o n ,   U K - 

The Right Honourable Jeremy Hunt MP

Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt gave a statement on the UK recognising Juan Guaido as the constitutional interim President of Venezuela.

On 26 January, Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt made clear that unless Nicolas Maduro called presidential elections within 8 days, the United Kingdom would recognise National Assembly President, Juan Guaido, as the interim President of Venezuela, in line with the Venezuelan constitution. Mr Maduro has ignored this call.

Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said:

“The United Kingdom now recognises Juan Guaido as the constitutional interim President of Venezuela, until credible presidential elections can be held."

“The people of Venezuela have suffered enough. It is time for a new start, with free and fair elections in accordance with international democratic standards."

“The oppression of the illegitimate, kleptocratic Maduro regime must end. Those who continue to violate the human rights of ordinary Venezuelans under an illegitimate regime will be called to account. The Venezuelan people deserve a better future.”

The UK takes this position alongside the Organisation of American States, the Lima Group, the United States and European partners. As the EU made clear in its statement of 26 January and in Bucharest on 31 January, the window for dialogue remains open.

Michael Pompeo, US Secretary of State

Michael Pompeo, US Secretary of State said:

“We welcome the decision today by Austria, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Finland, France, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom to recognize Juan Guaido as the Interim President of Venezuela. We are also heartened by the European Parliament’s January 31 resolution recognizing Juan Guaido as Interim President. They join the United States and more than 23 other countries in recognizing Juan Guaido as Interim President, in accordance with Venezuela’s constitution."

“We encourage all countries, including other EU member states, to support the Venezuelan people by recognizing Interim President Guaido and supporting the National Assembly’s efforts to return constitutional democracy to Venezuela. We repeat our call to the Venezuelan military and security forces to support their country’s constitution and protect all Venezuelan citizens, including Interim President Guaido and his family, as well as U.S. and other foreign citizens in Venezuela."

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Potential Illegal Ship to Ship Transfers of Goods by North Korean Tanker

Hirokazu Watanabe -
T o k y o ,   J a p a n - 

Ship-to-ship transfers banned by UNSCR: transfers of
goods or items to or from DPRK-flagged vessels at sea.
AN SAN 1 and a vessel of unknown nationality lying
alongside each other and connecting hoses.

Suspicion of illegal ship-to-ship transfers of goods by ‘AN SAN 1', North Korean-flagged tanker, and vessel of unknown nationality took place in the East China Sea.

Today it was confirmed that in the afternoon of January 18, 2019, a AOE ‘OUMI' (Replenishment at Sea Squadron 1: Sasebo) of Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force found that ‘AN SAN 1' (IMO number: 7303803), North Korean-flagged tanker, was lying alongside a vessel of unknown nationality on the high sea (around 410km south offshore of Shanghai) in the East China Sea.

Judging from the fact that the two vessels lay alongside each other and connected hoses, both vessels could have been engaged in some type of activity. Following a comprehensive assessment, the Government of Japan strongly suspects that they conducted ship-to-ship transfers banned by UNSCR.

In March 2018, the Security Council Committee established pursuant to Resolution 1718 designated AN SAN 1 as a vessel subject to assets freeze and prohibited from port entry.

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UK Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt Visits Malaysia

Peter Thomas -
L o n d o n ,   U K - 

The Right Honourable Jeremy Hunt MP

Jeremy Hunt holds talks in Kuala Lumpur and pledges UK support for media freedom in Malaysia.

As part of a three-day visit to Asia, Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt will hold bilateral talks with the Malaysian Foreign Minister Saifuddin Abdullah today and reiterate the UK’s support for the new government’s reform agenda. Both ministers are due to discuss close cooperation on foreign policy issues including the UK’s relationship with ASEAN and action to support Rohingya refugees.

The Foreign Secretary will also hold meetings with the Malaysian Minister of Communications & Multimedia Gobind Singh Deo and media practitioners to discuss strengthening media freedom and combatting disinformation.

Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said:

“The UK is leading international efforts to support and protect media freedoms. At a time when these freedoms are increasingly under threat across the world, I applaud the new Malaysian government for the positive commitments and early steps it has taken. Lifting travel bans on journalists and moving to repeal laws that restrict media freedom demonstrate an intent to support journalists in their vital work and foster a free press."

“Later this year I will be hosting an international conference in London on media freedom, which will bring together countries like Malaysia, and mobilise consensus behind the protection of journalists and the environment they operate in."

“At the meetings, the Foreign Secretary will offer the UK’s support, through the sharing of experience and expertise to help upskill the Malaysian media and announce that the UK will deliver a programme for Malaysian journalists focusing on investigative journalism."

While in Kuala Lumpur the Foreign Secretary is also expected to call on the Malaysian Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and will attend a roundtable with businesses.

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UK Defence Secretary Reaffirms Support to Ukraine in the Face of Russian Aggression

Peter Thomas -
L o n d o n ,   U K - 

Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson
on board HMS Echo

Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s commitment to working closely with Ukraine in the face of shared threats when he met Ukrainian Defence Minister Stepan Poltorak on a visit to Odesa.

Mr Williamson visited Royal Navy vessel HMS ECHO, whose planned deployment to the Black Sea and Ukraine he accelerated. This is a clear demonstration of the UK’s unwavering support both to Ukraine’s territorial sovereignty and freedom of navigation. This followed the latest in a pattern of Russian hostile acts, the illegal seizure of Ukrainian vessels and 24 servicemen by Russia last month.

Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said:

“The UK is a steadfast partner to Ukraine as it faces continued illegal acts of aggression against its sovereignty."

“HMS Echo’s deployment is a further demonstration of our resolute support and commitment to cooperate with the Ukrainian military."

While in Odesa the Defence Secretary also gained an insight into the personal cost Russia’s actions have wreaked on the people of Ukraine when he met with families of the detained servicemen.

He reaffirmed that the UK stood shoulder-to-shoulder alongside the international community in calling for their immediate release.

In conversations with Mr Poltorak the Defence Secretary discussed the progress being made on the UK’s military training mission to Ukraine Operation Orbital, which he announced would be extended until 2020 on his last visit in September.

Further to the deployment of HMS Echo – whose passage through the Black Sea was notified to regional authorities through the Montreux Convention – the UK will also be offering support and mentoring to the Ukrainian Navy and deploying training teams made up from the Royal Navy, Royal Marines and the Army in January and March 2019.

The UK and Ukrainian Armed Forces will also gain further opportunities to develop capability and share expertise by committing to bilateral exercises next year.

Since the start of 2015, British personnel have trained over 9,500 of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

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UK calls on Russia to allow ships access to Ukraine’s ports

Peter Thomas -
L o n d o n ,   U K - 

Foreign & Commonwealth Office

The UK has joined calls for Russia to stop delaying or preventing access for ships to the Sea of Azov, following a discussion at the EU Foreign Affairs Council.

Russia’s continued disruption of ships attempting to access Ukrainian ports in the Sea of Azov is destabilising the regional economy. Restrictions on freedom of passage have been accompanied by an increase in Russia’s military presence in the sea.

An FCO spokesperson said:

“Russia and its security forces continue to disrupt Ukrainian and international shipping calling at Ukrainian ports in the Sea of Azov. In March, Russia opened an unlawfully constructed bridge across the Kerch Strait connecting Russia to the illegally annexed Crimean peninsula."

“Since then, Russia has been conducting stop and search operations for cargo ships arriving at, and leaving from, Ukraine’s ports in the Azov Sea. This is causing delays, significant increases in shipping costs, and a reduction in income to Ukraine’s ports. So far, more than 200 vessels have been affected, in a policy which is damaging Ukraine’s economy and undermining its sovereignty."

“We are also concerned by Russia’s growing military presence in the Sea of Azov. The UK supports Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders and territorial waters. We call on Russia to allow unhindered access for merchant vessels through the Kerch Strait and in the Sea of Azov."

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Vice President Mike Pence to visit Japan, Singapore, Australia, and Papua New Guinea

Shantel Harris -
W a s h i n g t o n ,   D C ,   U S A - 

President Trump and Vice President Mike Pence

Vice President Mike Pence will travel to South East Asia from November 11 to 18 on behalf of President Donald Trump.

The Vice President will represent the President at the US ASEAN Summit and the East Asia Summit in Singapore as well as the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meetings in Papua New Guinea.

Vice President Pence will also participate in meetings with Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister Peter O’Neill, and Australia’s Prime Minister Scott Morrison, in addition to other bilateral meetings. National Security Advisor John Bolton will join the Vice President for the US ASEAN Summit and East Asia Summit in Singapore and APEC meetings in Papua New Guinea.

“The Vice President is honoured to represent President Donald Trump at the US ASEAN Summit and APEC next week, where he will highlight American leadership in the region and reaffirm our commitment to freedom, economic prosperity, and security in the Indo-Pacific,” Alyssa Farah, Press Secretary for the Vice President said. “This will be Vice President Pence’s third trip to the region as Vice President and he will reaffirm the President’s commitment to the final, fully verified denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. He will also deliver the message that authoritarianism, aggression, and the disregard for other nations’ sovereignty by any nation in the Indo-Pacific will not be tolerated by the United States.”

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