Ottawa, December 2, 2011 — The Honourable Christian Paradis, Minister of Industry, kicked off a visit to New York City by ringing the NASDAQ Stock Market Closing Bell yesterday. Today, he held roundtables and conducted bilateral meetings with U.S. companies and government officials to discuss the business and economic environment in North America. The Minister promoted Canada as a sound investment destination and sought companies' insights on the impact of the current economic uncertainty in North America.
"These meetings were an opportunity to discuss what the Harper Government and the private sector can do together to create the conditions for business to succeed in Canada and North America," said Minister Paradis. "Canada is open for business, and I am pleased with the reception and interest that I received during this trip."
The Minister participated in a roundtable with American industry representatives from sectors including digital media, manufacturing and pharmaceuticals. Topics of discussion included investment decisions in Canada and the U.S., and the economic outlook for the next 6-18 months.
A second roundtable was held with experts from the World Economic Forum USA. This forum allowed the Minister to hear their perspective on recent developments in the U.S. economy and potential effects on the Canadian and global economies.
Minister Paradis also met with John Parisella, Quebec's Delegate General in New York, and John F. Prato, Consul General of Canada in New York, during his visit. They discussed opportunities for Canadian companies looking to invest in the U.S., and explored ways the Government of Canada can increase trade and investment.
For more information (media only), please contact:
Richard Walker
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Industry
613-995-9001
Media Relations
Industry Canada
613-943-2502
