CALGARY, Alberta, April 24, 2006 — The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Telecommunications and Information Working Group (APEC TEL) will meet from April 23 to 28 in Calgary, Alberta.
The meeting will provide representatives from APEC's 21 member economies with the opportunity to discuss key issues such as effective regulation, wireless security, spam and related threats, advanced technologies for remote communities and persons with disabilities, strengthening trade flows, support for the World Trade Organization's negotiations, and ways to best make use of emerging technologies.
"Canada is honoured to host an event of such importance in the telecommunications and information industry," said the Honourable Maxime Bernier, Minister of Industry. "This is our chance to showcase Canada's expertise and technologies with some of our most important trading partners."
APEC TEL is one of the most active and dynamic working groups within APEC. Its members include, among others, Canada, China, Japan, Australia, the United States and Mexico, reflecting the diversity of the Asia-Pacific region. The working group is mandated to improve the telecommunications and information infrastructure while facilitating effective cooperation, free trade and investment, and sustainable development.
"APEC TEL 33 provides a great opportunity for Alberta organizations to meet with key dignitaries and business representatives from around the world," said Victor Doerksen, Minister of Alberta Innovation and Science. "This conference will strengthen the awareness of opportunities in the Asia-Pacific market and showcase Canadian expertise and technology to key Pacific Rim players."
"APEC TEL 33 is expected to bring at least 350 delegates from across the APEC region to Calgary. It offers an excellent opportunity for local companies to get involved and focus on trade, investment and international partnerships," said Dave Bronconnier, Mayor of Calgary. "Our companies can network with local, national and international players, build relationships, and advance the telecommunications and information industry not only within Calgary, but across Canada as a whole."
In addition to the formal meeting, numerous workshops and side events will take place, including workshops on wireless security, "e-inclusion" for people with disabilities, and broadband for remote and indigenous communities. Canada will also host a "technology playground," where companies can showcase their latest and greatest accomplishments.
This six-day event will take place from April 23 to the 28, 2006, at the Hyatt Regency Calgary Hotel. For more information, please visit http://www.apectel33.ca.
For more information, please contact:
Isabelle Fontaine
Office of the Honourable Maxime Bernier
Minister of Industry
Tel.: (613) 995-9001
Media Relations
Industry Canada
Tel.: (613) 943-2502
Anne Douglas, APR
Director of Communications
Alberta Innovation and Science
Tel.: (780) 422-1562
Cell: (780) 886-3372
Luiza Zorrilla
Director, Marketing and Communications
Calgary Economic Development
Tel.: (403) 221-7869
Cell: (403) 880-7040
Email: luiza@calgaryeconomicdevelopment.com
