Parliamentary State Secretary Anette Kramme welcomed a delegation made up of Canadian members of parliament from the New Democratic Party (NDP) at the Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs on 7 November 2022.
Against the backdrop of the current challenges, the discussion focused on issues regarding labour market and social policy, in particular policies for social security. Both sides also discussed demographic change and the shortage of skilled workers, as well as the implications of the digital transformation and green transition on labour markets.
The MPs from Canada were especially interested in relief measures for low-income individuals in light of current inflation and the energy crisis. In this context, Parliamentary State Secretary Anette Kramme also outlined the adjustment of the German minimum wage and reforms of the German pension system. Labour market trends after the pandemic and the issues of migration and immigration also featured in the talks.
Germany and Canada are facing similar challenges with regard to their social protection systems and shortages of skilled workers. “It is therefore of great importance that we maintain a dialogue with each other and share our experiences," said Parliamentary State Secretary Anette Kramme.
Both sides agreed to strengthen their bilateral relations further.