OTTAWA, Ont. – Mr. Chris Alexander, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence, today addressed the International Outlook forum hosted by the Canadian Association of Defence and Security Industries, highlighting the importance of the defence and security industries in protecting our men and women in uniform and in supporting the Canadian economy.
“Our defence and security industries are key to ensuring that we have a modern military that can protect and defend Canadians well into the future, while at the same time driving economic prosperity here at home through the development of export markets,”
said Mr. Alexander. “Exports are a critical component of the defence and security industry, promoting innovation, competitiveness and creating high value jobs for Canadians.”
Focused on meeting the operational requirements of the Canadian Armed Forces in a timely, cost effective manner, while optimizing the economic potential for Canadian industry, the Government continues to work to improve the collaboration with industry throughout the defence acquisition process, from streamlining internal processes to improvements to Canada’s Industrial and Regional Benefits policy.
“Our Government is committed to finding the best way to maximize military procurements in support of Canadian jobs, economic growth and the competitiveness of these industries, at home and on the global stage, particularly in regard to innovation and technology development,” said Mr. Alexander.
Mr. Alexander also affirmed that since exporting is one of the leading drivers of economic growth, the Government is committed to leveraging domestic opportunities into success on a global level. Not only will this ensure competitiveness and provide opportunities for Canadian companies to be integrated into global supply chains, it will also help the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces build important relationships with our Allies and close partners worldwide.
“Our Government remains focused on four priorities, as outlined by the Prime Minister, that Canadians care most about: their families, the safety of our streets and communities, their pride in being a citizen of this country, and of course, their personal financial security,” concluded Mr. Alexander.
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