Creating jobs and opportunities for hardworking Canadians in every region of the country is our priority, says Minister Fast
March 19, 2014 - Abbotsford, British Columbia - Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
The Honourable Ed Fast, Minister of International Trade, in an address to the Abbottsford Chamber of Commerce, today highlighted the Harper government’s plan to support Canadian workers and businesses for continued success, economic growth and prosperity in British Columbia and across Canada.
Minister Fast spoke of Canada’s favourable investment climate and its reputation as a great place to do business. He reminded the audience that one in five Canadian jobs is linked to exports and that is why Canada is embarking on the most ambitious trade expansion plan in its history, with 20 free-trade initiatives underway covering 76 countries.
As examples of the government’s recent efforts, Minister Fast highlighted the benefits the recently announced free trade agreement with South Korea and the agreement-in-principle with the European Union will bring to British Columbia’s economy.
Minister Fast also told the audience that under the Global Markets Action Plan, Canada is creating the right conditions for its businesses—especially small and medium-sized enterprises—to engage and compete successfully in priority markets. He urged B.C. businesses to take advantage of Canada’s pro-trade plan to ensure a bright and prosperous future for all residents of B.C. and for all Canadians.
“We fully understand that, when Canadian companies succeed abroad, all Canadians benefit from the jobs and opportunities that are created at home. This is why we’re working to strengthen and expand Canada’s trade and investment relationships in priority markets, especially in the fast-growing and booming Asian market, while providing the best environment for our workers and businesses to continue to thrive.”
- Ed Fast, Minister of International Trade
Shannon Gutoskie
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Ed Fast
Minister of International Trade
613-992-7332
Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
613-995-1874
media@international.gc.ca
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