The Honourable Diane Ablonczy Applauds Climb in Canada's Country Brand Index 2008 Ranking

OTTAWA, November 12, 2008 — The global tourism spotlight fell on Canada this week as our country leapt from 12^th to 2^nd place in just two years in FutureBrand's Country Brand Index 2008.

"I would like to thank and congratulate all those people who are part of the tourism industry in Canada," stated the Honourable Diane Ablonczy, Minister of State (Small Business and Tourism). "With your hard work and commitment to excellence, our country is globally perceived as an experience to be desired and fulfilled."

This is more than just a number. It demonstrates that Canada's tourism industry is making important achievements in the face of growing global competition for travellers, amid unpredictable economic conditions worldwide.

Canada's climb in rating is also a credit to the work of the Canadian Tourism Commission to market Canada as an attractive and exciting destination with unique experiences awaiting any traveller. Such an achievement is consistent with the excellent work being done by Canada's tourism industry to inspire travellers to choose Canada as their next vacation destination.

This accomplishment demonstrates that tourism is a sector on the move in Canada. Tourism contributes as much to our country's wealth as agriculture, forestry and fishery combined. Its growing success is good news for Canadians in every community across our country. Canada's government looks forward to working with the industry to ensure that federal policies and programs will support and help grow our tourism industry.

As we count down to the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, we look to further leverage our international exposure and create an even more promising future for the tourism industry in Canada.

For further information (media only), please contact:

Catherine Godbout
Office of the Honourable Diane Ablonczy
Minister of State (Small Business and Tourism)
613-943-6183

Media Relations
Industry Canada
613-943-2502