OTTAWA - Quebec Premier Jean Charest said Wednesday the time is right for Canada to strike a free-trade deal with the European Union.

Charest, who was addressing a conference on transatlantic trade, said Canada represents a choice entry point for trade from the European Union, which has its eye on the huge U.S. market.

The presidency of the EU falling to the president of France - a friend of Canada - and the interest in trade issues during the U.S. election campaign have given rise to an opportunity, Charest said.

"What we can say to the Europeans is that we offer a fast track for those interested in a more intense transatlantic relationship," Charest said. "Negotiate an agreement with Canada and it may serve as a model of what you may want to suggest to the Americans."

Charest said he hopes a deal can be concluded as soon as possible and said it is not wise to let things drag on too long.

Charest is a strong promoter of trade with the European Union and rarely misses a chance to push it.

He said in his speech such a deal would benefit Canada and Quebec, whose economies depend on the U.S. market.

Besides the advantages of an economic agreement, Charest predicted there would be openings for other similar deals on culture, education and manpower mobility.

Studies on the viability of a free-trade deal with the EU will be tabled within a few months. Canada and Quebec are also in discussions with the EU on the matter.

The next key step will be in October at the Canada-European Union summit where Prime Minister Stephen Harper and French President Nicolas Sarkozy could decide to officially start negotiations on an agreement.

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