Canada's federal, provincial and territorial Ministers of Agriculture met in Ottawa this week to discuss a number of issues.

The meeting was co-chaired by Lawrence MacAulay, federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, and Steve Crocker, Newfoundland and Labrador Minister of Fisheries and Land Resources.

Among the topics discussed was the development of the next agricultural policy framework, which is set launch on April 1, 2018. Talks also focused on the next suite of programs and services for the ag sector, including Business Risk Management programs.

“Together with the provinces and territories, the Government of Canada remains committed to developing innovative programs and services to help ensure agriculture continues to be a leading growth sector of Canada’s economy," said MacAulay. "Our strong agricultural sector will help meet the world’s growing demand for high-quality, sustainable food and help us grow our middle class.”

The discussion built on key priorities that were outlined in the Calgary Statement, which was issued by federal, provincial, and territorial Ministers in July of 2016.

Work on the new agricultural policy framework will continue this July.

The importance of trade and market development was also discussed during this week's meetings, where Ministers committed to preserve the integrity of the supply management system.