Canadian problems follow Harper to Peru
by nat ore
1. Who and What
1.1. PM of Canada - S. Harper - frustrated, angry with issue
1.2. Met with Peruvian business leaders and politicians
1.3. Peruvian President Ollanta Humala Tasso
1.4. Reporters directly asked Harper about Senator Mike Duffy's $90k expenses controversy
2. Important Details & Background info
2.1. Pacific alliance - free trade area between Peru, Mexico, Chile, and Columbia.
2.1.1. Canada has bilateral free trade agreements with all 4 countries
2.1.2. In 2012, Canada gained observer status on the pacific alliance and is considering joining
2.2. Wright's personal decision and capability to write cheque
2.2.1. He is solely responsible and that is why he resigned
3. When and Where
3.1. Wednesday, May 22, 2013
3.2. Lima, Peru
3.3. Joint press conference with Peruvian President
3.4. Part of 4 day trip to S.America: trade and bilateral relations
4. Why and How
4.1. Chief of Staff Nigel Wright resigned on Sunday after Duffy incident
4.1.1. Harper plans to look at current systems and see how to better manage and prevent these types of things from happening again
4.2. Purpose of visit to Peru
4.2.1. To talk about mining and framework for a new air transport agreement
4.2.1.1. Importance of bilateral trade and investment and commitment to open markets
4.3. Harper's focus on foreign policy talks
4.3.1. Align Canada's aid spending more closely with its commercial interests
4.3.2. Ensure Canadian investors uphold high standards with labour and environment in developing countries