Toronto, Ontario, May 8, 2012—Today, the Honourable Christian Paradis, Minister of Industry and Minister of State (Agriculture), delivered an address to the Bloomberg Canada Economic Summit, where he drew attention to the strength of Canada's business environment. During his conversation with members of Canada's business community, he also underlined the Harper Government's commitment to an open investment climate.
"Foreign investment is vital to the Canadian economy. Since coming to office, our government has worked to strengthen Canada's business climate to make it one of the most attractive in the world," said Minister Paradis. "These efforts are working; Canada attracted 95 new foreign businesses and expansion projects worth more than $16 billion in 2011 alone."
Recognizing that there remains uncertainty in the global economy, the Minister also reminded the audience that while the Canadian economy is strong, the country still faces certain challenges that need to be addressed.
"We cannot rest on our laurels," said the Minister. "We are on the right course. We are recognized as being a leader in the world, and we must continue our work to strengthen our economic competitiveness and create jobs, which are both driven by private sector growth."
The Bloomberg Canada Economic Summit convenes government officials, business leaders and leaders in the banking, energy, commodities and technology industries to examine Canada's role as a major destination for investment and a supplier of capital around the world.
For further information (media only), please contact:
Margaux Stastny
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Christian Paradis
Minister of Industry
613-995-9001
Media Relations
Industry Canada
613-943-2502
