U.S. – Australia Relations

US, Canada Trade Mission a Success

Canberra — 14 June 2008

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Chief Minister Jon Stanhope said an ACT Government-led trade mission to the United States of America and Canada had been an outstanding success, with participating Canberra businesses participating in dozens of face-to-face meetings with potential partners and export customers, and fruitful discussions held with US and Canadian business organisations.

The Chief Minister arrived back in Canberra this weekend.

The mission, a partnership between the ACT Government, Austrade and US and Canadian regional development agencies in the cities visited, was regarded as an overwhelming success by participating ACT companies and a return mission by Virginian companies is already planned for later this year.

"Over the duration of the mission Canberra businesses logged up about 150 meetings, exploring new export opportunities that will benefit the ACT economy," Mr Stanhope said. "The companies also participated in a number of crucial networking events hosted by local business organisations in Washington, Richmond and Toronto."

"The vibe at these events was extremely positive and there is no doubt that the mission has significantly heightened awareness of the national capital as a source of expertise in the business of government administration, defence technology, and cutting-edge ICT. Our local companies will be able to capitalise on this new awareness as they pursue the contacts established over recent days."

Mr Stanhope said a proposed trade mission from Virginia to Australia later this year would include Canberra, and Virginia Governor Timothy Kaine had expressed a strong interest in visiting Canberra himself – something the ACT would pursue vigorously.

"The Virginian mission in September is a direct outcome of dialogue on trade and investment opportunities started about a year ago, assisted by local company Beyond Business Connections," Mr Stanhope said. "In an ever-shrinking world, regional economies like ours need to make the most of opportunities to build direct trade and investment relations, and this month’s North American mission was an important part of that quest, in a part of the world that is already the most crucial destination for Canberra businesses seeking a share of the global marketplace."

Mr Stanhope said he had had the opportunity, during the trip, to see first-hand how other communities were tackling shared challenges such as housing affordability and services for the vulnerable. The visits to Richmond and Quebec City had also been valuable opportunities to talk to individuals experienced in hosting major community celebrations, in the lead-up to Canberra’s centenary in 2013. Quebec City is celebrating its 400th birthday this year, while Richmond celebrated the 400th anniversary of the first permanent British settlement in the US, at Jamestown, in 2007.

Statement Ends

Original document from www.chiefminister.act.gov.au.

Last update Wednesday, 18 June 2008