May 11, 1998 No. 118

MARCHI REPORTS ON CANADA'S

INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

International Trade Minister Sergio Marchi today released the second annual report on Canada's international business development (IBD) endeavours. The report, entitled Achievements of the International Business Development Program 1997/98, focusses on the results and achievements of the government's IBD efforts. The report was tabled in the House of Commons today by Julian Reed, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for International Trade.

"Canada's exports reached another record high last year," said Mr. Marchi. "We can attribute this success, in part, to our international business development activities. While this is good news, we must continue to work hand-in-hand with our provincial and private sector partners to sustain this momentum. The Team Canada partnership will help Canadian exporters become even more competitive in the global arena."

The centrepiece of the IBD program is the recently created Team Canada Inc network of service providers led by three federal government departments: Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Industry Canada, and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. These core departments are working together to provide enhanced programs and services to the Canadian business community.

"Our IBD initiatives are not only paving the way for more Canadian companies to venture into new markets, but also are attracting foreign investment to Canada by providing targeted and cost-effective programs and services. The continuing success of Canadian companies abroad is being translated directly into increased economic growth and job creation here at home," said Mr. Marchi.

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For further information, media representatives may contact:

Leslie Swartman

Office of the Minister for International Trade

(613) 992-7332

Media Relations Office

Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade

(613) 995-1874

This document is also available on the Department's Internet site: http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca