Industry Minister Tony Clement Speaks to the World Economic Forum in China

Minister Looks to November G20 Meeting in Seoul to Build on Success of Toronto Summit

Tianjin, China, September 14, 2010 — The Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry, visited Tianjin, China, today as part of his five-day visit to China. During his visit he spoke to a meeting of the World Economic Forum and met with local business leaders. During each meeting, he highlighted the resilience of the Canadian economy and encouraged greater Sino-Canadian partnerships.

“It is a privilege to be in this impressive city and to have the opportunity to address the World Economic Forum,” said Minister Clement. “The World Economic Forum’s New Champions Meeting is a seminal international meeting for thinkers and leaders from around the world. I look forward to participating in the discussion and sharing our unique Canadian perspective.”

The Minister appeared as part of a high-profile panel discussion hosted by the World Economic Forum regarding the G20 meeting in Seoul, South Korea, to be held in November. At this event, he spoke alongside senior government officials from China, Indonesia, South Korea and Switzerland, as well as a representative from the International Monetary Fund. The discussion focused on what can be expected from G20 members at the upcoming meeting, what role Asian countries might be able to play in supporting the global recovery, and what challenges can be expected into 2011. During the discussion, the Minister highlighted the success of the Toronto Summit and expressed optimism that the meeting in Seoul will be equally productive.

He then participated in a series of meetings with government officials and senior business representatives, including from IT companies. Following this, he attended a meeting hosted by China’s Minister of Science and Technology, Wan Gang, where he praised the strong relationship China and Canada have built in the science and technology sector and discussed ways to further enhance collaboration.

The Minister’s visit to Tianjin caps off a five-day tour of China.

For further information (media only), please contact:

Lynn Meahan
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Tony Clement
Minister of Industry
613-995-9001

Media Relations
Industry Canada
613-943-2502