Ghiz, aboriginal leaders praise success of trade mission to China

P.E.I. Premier Robert Ghiz says he is pleased with the success of the 2014 joint mission to China.

Ghiz, Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne and Québec Premier Philippe Couillard met with several senior Chinese political leaders while in Beijing.

The discussions included joint projects between China’s natural resource sector and Canadian provinces, key sectors for collaboration between Canada and China, research and science as well as China’s short and long-term economic prospects.

Premiers also participated in the 36th Canada-China Business Council annual meeting and policy conference where they spoke about opportunities for investing in Canada, and met with several prominent Chinese investors.

“By fostering mutually beneficial political and business relationships with our Chinese counterparts, we can improve Sino-Canadian trade and in turn create more jobs for Canadians,” said Ghiz, chairman of the Council of the Federation, who is still in China.

P.E.I. First Nation Chiefs, Brian Francis and Matilda Ramjattan joined Canada’s premiers on their trade mission to China.

“China is Canada’s second-largest trading partner,” said Ramjattan of the Lennox Island First Nation.

“This mission gives us an opportunity to make essential connections that will open the door to the export of P.E.I. Mi’kmaqmade products to China.”

Ramjattan also represented Minigoo Fisheries at numerous events during the mission.

“For us, taking part in the Beijing meetings is about opening the door for greater trade in the future,” added Francis of the Abegweit First Nation.