Minister welcomes opportunity provided by Resource Investor�s Forum

Ed Byrne, Minister of Natural Resources, said the Resource Investor�s Forum taking place June 5-6 in St. John�s is another great opportunity for Newfoundland and Labrador to promote its rich natural resources.

"This is the first time the province has hosted such a forum, which will promote our mineral and petroleum resources to investors," said Minister Byrne. "By hosting this international conference and exhibition, we can bring investors to our province, where they can see first-hand that this is a great place to do business."

Over the two days of the forum there will be discussion on the opportunities for base and precious metals and oil and gas. The forum will feature speakers of international prominence who will share their insights and predictions for resource investments in minerals and petroleum. The exhibition will also feature Newfoundland and Labrador-based companies promoting their activities and properties within the province.

Minister Byrne also commended the Newfoundland and Labrador Chamber of Mineral Resources for sponsoring the forum and focusing the attention of the global investment community on this province and its resources.

"Our natural resources, including our mineral and petroleum resources, are our most important economic asset," said Minister Byrne. "This government has a clear agenda for growing our economy by generating new revenues and jobs by promoting new investment opportunities and ultimately generating new wealth for investors and the province. That�s why events such as the Resource Investor�s Forum are very important to the province."

Minister Byrne also encouraged members of the general public to drop by the Resource Investor�s Forum taking place at the St. John�s Convention Centre Saturday and Sunday. More information can be found at: www.resourceinvestorsforum.ca

Media contact: Carmel Turpin, Communications, (709) 729-5282

2004 06 04                                       4:05 p.m.