February 22nd, 2008

The Honourable David Emerson, PC, MP

Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Pacific Gateway and the Vancouver-Whistler Olympics

Lester B. Pearson Building

125 Sussex Drive

Ottawa , Canada

Dear Minister Emerson,

We would like to congratulate you on the recent announcement concerning free trade negotiations with Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. This opening foray into free trade negotiations with the Arab World must be commended as it will allow Canada to build stronger links with this region.

The National Council on Canada-Arab Relations strongly believes in the creation of an improved relationship between Canada and the Arab World. Links between these two regions, either in trade, culture, recreation or politics will allow for a better understanding and cooperation in the future.

We invite you and your Department to look at the possible opening of free trade discussions with other countries and to also consult with Canadians of Arab origin and Canadians with an interest in establishing better relations with those regions in order to benefit from innovative ideas that may support your free trade agenda.

Finally, I would like to commend you on your leadership in this file and I look forward to the day when this Free Trade Agreement will be submitted to a vote in Parliament.

Yours truly,

Bahija Réghaï

President