 Minister of Western Economic Diversification and Minister of State (Sport)
Riding: Vancouver Quadra (British Columbia)
Biography
I am honoured to serve as Minister for Western Economic Diversification during this time of dynamic activity in Western Canada. We have made much progress in advancing the West in recent years, and there is much to look forward to. The Prime Minister has expressed his desire to better reflect western priorities in national decisions, and I am personally committed to this as well.
When Vancouver hosts the World Urban Forum in 2006 and the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games., the West will become the focal point of national and worldwide attention. These will be opportunities to showcase Western Canada's innovative technologies, cutting edge industries, and the talents and ingenuity of westerners.
Western Economic Diversification Canada's (WD) mandate is to develop and diversify Western Canada's economy. Over time, our approach has evolved to reflect the reality that economic development cannot be pursued in isolation; social and environmental factors must be considered as well. WD's efforts to advance the commercialization of new environmental technologies reflect this holistic approach- promoting the solid business case for these products today will lead to tangible economic, environmental and social benefits tomorrow and long into the future.
At the end of the day, we are helping to ensure that rural and urban communities across the West are healthy and vibrant over the long term. Through our work and targeted investments that support sustainable communities, entrepreneurship and innovation, WD is improving the quality of life of western Canadians and helping to build a 21 st century economy. As we do this, I invite you to work with us, because by building a stronger West, we are building a stronger Canada.
The Honourable Stephen Owen
Minister of Western Economic Diversification and
Minister of State (Sport)
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