Canada walks out of trade talks with European Union
Canada has walked out of talks meant to save a trade deal with the European Union, unable to break a deadlock with a small Belgian region that was blocking next week's official signature.
The departure of Canada's international trade minister was a stunning setback and leaves it unclear whether the rest of the EU will be able to persuade the region of Wallonia to sign up to the agreement.
Canadian international trade minister Chrystia Freeland said it had been impossible to overcome the differences with Wallonia, a region of 3.5 million people.
The agreement needed unanimity within the EU, and Belgium in turn needs unanimity among its regions.
"It seems that for me, and for Canada, that the EU is not capable now to have an international deal, even with a nation with such European values like Canada," Ms Freeland said as she left.
Close to tears, she added: "Canada is disappointed ... but I think it is impossible."
The deal was supposed to be signed next week in Brussels by Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau.
The disagreement has pitted Wallonia against the entire EU and Canada, with populations of over 500 million and 35 million.
An official at the European Commission, which...