Mr. Speaker, on May 21, the Canadian government announced the signing of an international social security agreement with the Slovak Republic.
This agreement will make it easier for Canadians who have lived and worked in the Slovak Republic, and for Slovaks who live in Canada, to qualify for old age, disability and survivor benefits.
This agreement is an important step toward strengthening the relationship and areas of co-operation between our two countries.
It should also be noted that international agreements such as this one are increasingly important, as global economics and greater international co-operation create increased labour mobility and movement between countries.
To date, Canada has signed social security agreements with 44 countries.