Premier to Lead Mission to China to Promote Expanded Partnerships

Newfoundland and Labrador is expanding its economic and trade relationship with the People’s Republic of China and the Provincial Government is looking to further strengthen and diversify this relationship through an upcoming trade promotion and investment attraction mission. The Honourable Kathy Dunderdale, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will lead a Newfoundland and Labrador delegation to China from June 20 to 28.

“I am pleased to lead this delegation to China as our government continues to seek ways to expand export development and business growth in Newfoundland and Labrador,” said Premier Dunderdale. “Our province is on the move and we are continuing to build a strong international reputation in sectors such as mining, oil and gas, ocean technology, fisheries and post-secondary education. China is one of the world’s leading economies and this mission is an exciting opportunity to showcase what our province has to offer to this major global player. Over the coming days, we will hold meetings with key Chinese businesses and government officials to explore new opportunities and further solidify our current relationships.”

Joining the Premier on the China mission will be the Honourable Tom Marshall, Minister of Natural Resources; the Honourable Jerome Kennedy, Minister of Finance and President of Treasury Board; Ed Martin, President and CEO, Nalcor Energy; and, Dr. Gary Kachanoski, President and Vice-Chancellor, Memorial University.

“There is a tremendous momentum in our resource sector in Newfoundland and Labrador,” added Premier Dunderdale. “That was evident last week as I met with world class industry leaders in the mining sector and it was proudly displayed as I addressed the Newfoundland and Labrador Oil and Gas Industries Association this week. That growth potential coupled with ensuring the importance of stability and security of our resources is the message that I will be bringing to China as I lead this important trade mission.”

As the world’s fastest growing economy, China represents a significant opportunity as a market for Newfoundland and Labrador’s resource industries as well as emerging sectors such as ocean technology. The purpose of the China mission is to build upon existing relationships, identify trade, investment and other opportunities in areas of mutual interest and demonstrate the Provincial Government’s commitment to expanding business relations with China.

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2013 06 19             10:00 a.m.