August 08, 2013
Abbotsford, British Columbia
Today, the Honourable Michelle Rempel, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, delivered a keynote address at the 2013 Aerospace, Defence and Security Expo (ADSE), reaffirming the Harper Government's support for western Canadian businesses in these important sectors.
"The West is well-positioned to capitalize on the many opportunities available for the aerospace, defence, security and marine industries in the global market," said Minister Rempel. "As Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, I'm committed to helping Western Canada be a driving force in our country today and in the long-term."
Minister Rempel also announced that the Harper Government, through Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) has provided $65,000 to support the Expo, a two-day conference that hosts a series of workshops, presentations and networking events. ADSE provides a valuable opportunity for western Canadian aerospace, defence, security and marine companies to establish new relationships and pursue new business ventures.
"The industries represented here at the 2013 Aerospace, Defence and Security Expo are major suppliers of high-quality jobs which ensure long-term economic prosperity for our communities," said Minister Rempel. "Our Government's support for the Expo is an example of our commitment to showcasing western Canadian companies and strengthening their competitiveness by exposing them to new markets."
"We have expanded our event to showcase the security sector for our fourth year," said Abbotsford Mayor Bruce Banman. "This addition will bring added value to our participants as they seek new business opportunities and we extend generous thanks to the Government of Canada for their support in making this event possible."
Since 2006, the Harper Government, through WD, has invested in job-creating small- and medium-sized businesses, aerospace, marine and defence industries, and supported innovative entrepreneurs in pursuing emerging markets. By continuing to promote new economic opportunities, WD is helping to create jobs, economic growth, and long-term prosperity.
