April 26, 2005 (12:45 p.m. EDT)
No. 73

MINISTER PETERSON ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENT

TO EDC BOARD OF DIRECTORS

International Trade Minister Jim Peterson today announced the appointment of Marcella Szel of Calgary, Alberta, to the Board of Directors of Export Development Canada (EDC).

“Ms. Szel’s considerable legal and business experience will be a tremendous asset to the Board of Directors of EDC,” said Minister Peterson. “I am confident that she will be able to bring new ideas to the table.”

As Senior Vice-President, Commodities and Government Affairs with Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR), Ms. Szel is currently responsible for revenues and growth opportunities for bulk commodities such as grains, fertilizers, sulfur and coal. She also represents the company on various government policy issues, focusing on advocacy to support investment. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree and a law degree from the University of Alberta.

Ms. Szel has had a diverse 20-year career with CPR, working as regional counsel for western Canada and then as vice-president, legal services, and vice-president, strategy and law, before starting her current position in February 2005. She is active in the business community in Calgary and is a former chair of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce.

Ms. Szel replaces Jim Patillo of Alberta, whose term has expired. Minister Peterson thanks Mr. Patillo for his years of exemplary service.

EDC provides trade finance and risk management services to Canadian exporters and investors in up to 200 markets, 150 of which are in developing economies.

EDC reports to Parliament through the Minister of International Trade.

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For further information, media representatives may contact:

Jacqueline LaRocque
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of International Trade
(613) 992-7332

Media Relations Office
International Trade Canada
(613) 995-1874
http://www.international.gc.ca