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PETTIGREW LAUNCHES DIRECTORY OF ABORIGINAL EXPORTERS

June 11, 2002 (3:45 p.m. EDT) No. 65

PETTIGREW LAUNCHES DIRECTORY OF ABORIGINAL EXPORTERS

International Trade Minister Pierre Pettigrew today launched the Directory of Aboriginal Exporters 2002, a practical trade tool to raise the presence and profile of Canadian Aboriginal exporters around the world.

"Aboriginal exporters greatly enhance Canada's presence in global markets and contribute to economic activity across the country," said Minister Pettigrew. "The Government of Canada is committed to assisting Aboriginal firms to develop business in foreign markets."

The Directory of Aboriginal Exporters 2002 profiles twice as many firms as were featured in the previous edition. This tool, available in print and on-line, gives buyers around the world access to Canada's Aboriginal exporters.

"The expansion of the new Directory of Aboriginal Exporters is a testimony to the success of Aboriginal businesses at the international level," said Robert D. Nault, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development. "Increasing economic opportunities for Aboriginal businesses is a top priority of the Government of Canada."

"First Nations, Métis and Inuit business owners are active in every sector of the economy," said Industry Minister Allan Rock. "These businesses are a positive force in our economy and are important contributors to our competitiveness in world markets."

The Directory is produced by the Aboriginal International Business Development Committee (AIBD), which is comprised of 29 federal departments and agencies. The AIBD is co-chaired by the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Industry Canada's Aboriginal Business Canada, and the Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development.

The Directory is available at http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/aboriginalplanet/directory-en.asp

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For further information, media representatives may contact:

Sébastien Théberge

Office of the Minister for International Trade

(613) 992-7332

Media Relations Office

Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade

(613) 995-1874

http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca

Alastair Mullin

Office of the Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs Canada