BEIJING, CHINA (September 14, 2012) – Premier McLeod spoke at the Canada China Business Council today as part of a premiers’ panel to encourage foreign investment in the territory’s mining, oil and gas, and hydro industries.
“The Northwest Territories economy has been built on luxury items – furs, gold and now diamonds,” Premier McLeod told the Council. “Over time, mining became the driving force of our economy. Today our mineral resources are still our biggest asset and represent the best investment opportunity for China. More oil and clean natural gas deposits are being found every year. And the Mackenzie River has some of the best undeveloped hydroelectric resources in North America.”
While in China, Premier McLeod will showcase the territory’s resource potential, highlight the NWT as an ideal tourism destination, and encourage Chinese investment in Canada. The trade mission will build relationships with Chinese leaders and business contacts and expand knowledge of NWT products in China. Business representatives will explore new trade opportunities, gather market insights and acquire business contacts that will grow the NWT economy. Establishing new business relationships with China will diversify the economy and provide opportunities in all communities and regions.
The 2012 Trade Mission to China is an initiative of the Council of the Federation (COF). Objectives include:
- Building and deepening productive relationships between provincial/territorial governments, businesses and educational institutions and counterparts in China;
- Advancing and creating trade and investment opportunities in key sectors of importance to provinces/territories and to China; and
- Demonstrating to China’s business and political leaders that Canada’s provinces and territories value their collective and unique relationships with China.
For more information, contact:
Megan Holsapple
Media Liaison
Office of the Premier and Executive Council
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 669-2302
Fax: (867) 873-0111