Minister Ashfield Boosts Market Access and Advances International Cooperation in Japan

November 3, 2011

Yokohama, Japan - Today, the Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, began a trade and cooperation mission in Yokohama and Tokyo, Japan.

“Canada and Japan are like-minded partners in our conservation approach to managing fisheries and we work together in many international fisheries management organizations,” said Minister Ashfield. “Moreover, our countries have been allies in deterring illegal fishing in the North Pacific and our government is committed to continuing this partnership.”

As Remembrance Day is approaching, Minister Ashfield began his trip with a visit to the Yokohama Commonwealth War Cemetery, where he laid a wreath to honour fallen Canadians and Commonwealth soldiers who died as prisoners of war in Japan. It is the only cemetery of its kind in the country.

While in Yokohama, Minister Ashfield also met with officials from the Japanese Coast Guard – a partner in the North Pacific Coast Guard Forum - during a tour of the Coast Guard’s local facilities.

In Tokyo on Friday, November 4, Minister Ashfield will hold meetings with several senior Japanese officials, including Michihiko Kano, Minister of Agriculture and Food to discuss ongoing cooperation to strengthen the international conservation and management measures of migratory species important to both countries, most notably tuna and swordfish.

As Japan is a major importer of fisheries products, Minister Ashfield will also promote Canadian fish and seafood products as healthy, safe and nutritious to Japanese industry representatives and highlight Canada’s desire to enhance the bilateral trade relationship between the two countries.

November 3, 2011
British Commonwealth War Cemetery (Yokohama, Japan)
The Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, lays a wreath at the British Commonwealth War Cemetery in honour of fallen Canadians and Commonwealth soldiers who died as prisoners of war in Japan. Also in the picture: Captain Bruce Walker, Canadian Defence Attaché.

November 3, 2011
British Commonwealth War Cemetery (Yokohama, Japan)
The Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, views the graves of fallen Canadians and Commonwealth soldiers who died as prisoners of war in Japan. Also in the picture: Captain Bruce Walker, Canadian Defence Attaché.

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