Agreement creates new opportunities for Canadian workers and delivers economic benefits across high value sectors
The Government of Canada is acting to strengthen Canada's economic and security interests by deepening cooperation with trusted international partners. In a global economy where security, and innovation drive growth, Canada is creating new opportunities for Canadian workers and delivering economic benefits across high‑value sectors.
Today, the Honourable Joël Lightbound, Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement and Quebec Lieutenant, and the Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, announced that Canada has signed a General Security of Information Agreement (GSOIA) with Germany. The agreement was signed on the margins of the German Foreign Minister's visit to Canada.
The agreement establishes a trusted framework for the secure exchange of sensitive information with Germany, including intelligence, sensitive operational information and technical data related to defence and security activities. It strengthens Canada's engagement with Germany, a key NATO partner in the Euro-Atlantic region, including by supporting defence cooperation. It would also expand opportunities for Canadian industry to participate in German contracts involving classified information, including those related to the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project.
Canada and Germany maintain a strong bilateral relationship encompassing defence, security, trade and investment. Bilateral merchandise trade reached $34.3 billion in 2025, making Germany Canada's sixth-largest merchandise trading partner globally and largest trading partner within the European Union. In recent years, Germany has increased defence investments and strengthened its contribution to collective security in Europe, creating new opportunities for enhanced cooperation in defence and security between Canada and Germany.
The GSOIA is consistent with Canada's European Engagement Strategy while advancing Canada's trade priorities by facilitating business opportunities for Canadian companies in key sectors including defence, security, aerospace, marine, energy and space. By enabling the secure exchange of classified information, this agreement will strengthen cooperation on trade, innovation, and advanced technologies. It will strengthen Canada's position as a trusted partner in strategic sectors, support economic growth, and contribute to building a stronger, more competitive Canadian economy.
