Canada and EU issue joint statement on Information Society
The European Union and the Government of Canada issued a joint statement on electronic commerce in the global Information Society, on 16 December 1999 in Ottawa, Canada. The statement reveals a shared vision for the development of a global Information Society, and recognises the need for an international environment that supports the growth of electronic commerce and maximises the social benefits for citizens. To encourage the development of a positive environment, the EU and Canada promise to work together with the private sector, civil society and international organisations to address a range of related issues, as outlined in their joint statement. These include privacy, security, consumer protection, partnerships, cooperation in multinational fora; and will be pursued through regular bilateral consultations on telecommunications and electronic commerce as key elements in the development of the global Information Society. A progress report will be submitted at the next Canada-EU Summit.