Canadian Groups Urge Halt to Ecuador Trade Deal

OTTAWA — Several Canadian organizations and civil society leaders called on Wednesday for the government to halt a proposed free trade agreement with Ecuador, warning that it could harm the environment and worsen a human rights crisis linked to mining operations.

Negotiations for the Canada-Ecuador deal concluded in early 2025. Under the agreement, Ecuador would eliminate tariffs on virtually all Canadian goods, opening doors for increased exports and investment. Critics, however, argue the pact prioritizes corporate interests, particularly in mining, over environmental protection and local communities.

Ketty Nivyabandi, secretary general of Amnesty International Canada, highlighted concerns from Indigenous women in Ecuador. "They worry it will exacerbate human rights concerns related to mining operations," she said.

Peggy Nash, former New Democratic Party member of Parliament and executive director of the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, urged rejection of the deal. "It privileges corporations and investors over people and the planet," Nash stated.

Proponents of the agreement point to economic benefits for Canada. International Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu told a House...