Archived - Canadians Will Benefit from Canada's Membership in the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank: Morneau

August 31, 2016 – Beijing, China – Department of Finance Canada

The Government of Canada is committed to strengthening the middle class by promoting strong, inclusive economic growth in Canada and around the world. Investments in high-quality infrastructure contribute to long-term growth and a better quality of life for people at home and abroad.

Earlier today, as part of Canada's commitment to engage, collaborate and invest with other global partners on development projects in Asia, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang, who welcomed Canada's decision to apply for membership in the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).

The AIIB will help sustain growth in Asia and represents an opportunity for Canada to further engage in multilateral infrastructure efforts that support inclusive economic growth in Asia and beyond. Membership in the AIIB also complements Canada's significant engagement in other international financial institutions such as the World Bank Group and the Asian Development Bank.

By aiming to become the first North American member of the AIIB, Canada is demonstrating our renewed commitment to engaging around the world, and acting on our belief in the long-term economic benefits of targeted investments in high-quality infrastructure projects.

Minister Morneau underlined that helping fund high-quality infrastructure in Asia will contribute to global economic growth and help Canadian companies to explore new commercial opportunities.

• Backgrounder: The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank—Steps in Approving New Members
• Budget 2016: Growing the Middle Class

Daniel Lauzon
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Finance
daniel.lauzon@mobile.gc.ca

Media Relations
Department of Finance Canada
613-369-4000