WASHINGTON, D.C. ¿ Today, the Honourable John Efford, Minister of Natural Resources Canada, participated in his first international visit since being appointed to his portfolio. He attended the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Ministerial Summit, hosted by U.S. Secretary of Energy Spencer Abraham. The purpose of the Summit was to bring together energy ministers from 24 countries to examine LNG in the global marketplace. In North America, natural gas production growth is slowing, while demand remains strong. LNG is expected to play more of a role in supplying natural gas to North America in the future. Minister Efford was named to the portfolio of Natural Resources Canada on December 12, 2003. He chose this trip to Washington, D.C., as his first international event to highlight the importance he places on Canada's relationship with the United States. "Fostering a positive relationship with my counterparts from other countries, and especially Secretary Abraham, is a priority for me," said Minister Efford. "It shows our government's commitment to building a 21 st -century economy and ensuring Canada's place in the world." Historically, almost all of U.S. natural gas imports have come from Canada, through a safe, efficient and shared pipeline network. Since 1985, natural gas exports to the U.S. have more than tripled, and are now at 10 billion cubic feet per day. This represents 16 percent of U.S. natural gas demand. In bringing this volume of gas to market through the pipeline system, Canadian pipeline companies have developed a reputation for excellence. Canada and the U.S. have a strong and multi-faceted energy relationship with numerous common interests. This ensures that both countries' integrated energy markets function well and remain efficient, and facilitates cooperation in areas such as energy efficiency and energy research and development. The Government of Canada is committed to market-oriented energy policies and to an integrated North American natural gas market, in which LNG imports from around the world provide a growing source of supply. For more information, media may contact: Alexandra Muir Ghyslain Charron Director of Communications Media Relations Office of the Minister Natural Resources Canada Natural Resources Canada Ottawa Ottawa (613) 992-4447 (613) 947-8246
