TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (Marketwire) -- 02/06/13 -- The Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State (Science and Technology), today delivered opening remarks at the Brazil-Canada Innovation, Science and Technology Forum. The meeting brought together representatives from the political, business and academic circles of both countries to discuss cooperation on science and technology and innovation.

"The Canada-Brazil relationship is important-both in terms of our economic ties and deepening cooperation on science, technology and innovation," said Minister of State Goodyear. "Going forward, Canada and Brazil will need more people with graduate degrees in science, engineering and math to meet a greater demand for talent and skills. We must continue to work together in addressing the demands of the 21st century."

Forum delegates received an update on the Canada-Brazil Framework Agreement for Cooperation on Science, Technology and Innovation, which came into effect in 2010.

The agreement allows Canadian and Brazilian partners from industry, academia and government to collaborate on joint research and development projects as well as scientific conferences and workshops. It also provides for the exchange and lending of equipment and materials and for student and researcher mobility.

Brazil is an important partner for Canada because of its strong science base, potential for innovation-based growth, and technological similarities with Canadian industry and academia. For more information on Canada-Brazil relations, visit the website of the Embassy of Canada to Brazil (www.canadainternational.gc.ca/brazil-bresil/index.aspx?lang=eng&view=d).