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Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Thomas Boni Yayi, President of Benin Republic and Chairman of the African Union (AU), exchange a handshake during a bilateral meeting. (Jason Ransom/PMO Photo)
This week, Prime Minister Stephen Harper hosted Dr. Thomas Boni Yayi, President of the Republic of Benin and Chairperson of the African Union.
Harper praised Yayi’s work in stabilizing the region and welcomed the growth of high-level contacts between the two countries. The two leaders announced a new investment treaty between Canada and Benin, a small country in West Africa.
Harper also took the occasion of Yayi’s visit to announce support for resource development in Africa through the UN Economic Commission for Africa to guide and advise African countries on how to manage extractive sectors.
“The development of mining, oil, and gas resources in Africa is critical to the future prosperity of the continent,” Harper said.
Veterans win Settlement
Canada’s veterans have reached a tentative settlement with the federal government that could be worth up to $887.8 billion.
The veterans launched a class action lawsuit over military pension clawbacks. A lawyer for the vets says the proposed deal includes $424.3 in retroactive payments dating back to 1976.
Liberal Veterans Affairs critic Sean Casey said the deal is long overdue.
“We are pleased that the Conservative government has finally concluded a settlement agreement with veterans.”
Chinese Steel Still a Problem
The Canadian International Trade Tribunal said Wednesday it is still concerned over the dumping of hot-rolled carbon steel from China.
Due to concerns the unfair trade will hurt Canadian businesses, the Canada Border Services Agency will continue to impose anti-dumping duties on the steel.
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