Archived and Outdated Information: This publication is out of date and should be referenced for research or recordkeeping purposes only. It is not subject to the Government of Canada Web Standards and has not been altered or updated since it was archived. The Report of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs is timely since this year marks the 25th anniversary of the Canada-EU Framework Agreement on Economic Cooperation. That agreement was "inspired by the common heritage, special affinity and shared aspirations" that unite Canada and the countries of the European Union. The Government of Canada welcomes the Standing Committee's Report, Crossing the Atlantic: Expanding the Economic Relationship between Canada and Europe for its guidance in helping Canada realize the full potential of this vital relationship. The European Economic Community has changed more than its name in the past 25 years. The EU now represents the world's largest market; its 375 million citizens move and work freely across the borders of its 15 member states. Most will soon buy and sell using its single currency, the euro. Within a decade, the Union could comprise 28 member states. Moreover, Canada's relationship with the new European Union now goes beyond commercial ties to encompass the whole range of issues facing Western nations: foreign and defence policy, the environment, social issues, immigration, information technology, health and employment.