Life of Guangzhou - 2005:Premier To Lead Trade And Investment Mission To China

TORONTO -- Premier Dalton McGuinty will lead members of the government and representatives of some of Ontario' s leading economic sectors to Beijing, Shanghai and Nanjing this fall to build stronger ties of trade and friendship with the people of China.

"Trade does more than improve balance sheets. It breaks down barriers, fosters respect and understanding and connects people and nations," said Ontario Premier McGuinty in a speech to the Canada China Business Council.

"After the United States, China is Ontario' s second largest trading partner. Our trade mission will focus on creating investment opportunities in sectors critical to Ontario' s prosperity such as automotive, information technology, financial services, education, life sciences and the
environment."

Ontario has a long-standing trading relationship with China, in such areas as vehicles, electrical and electronic equipment, machinery, toys and recreational goods. In 2004, twoway trade between Ontario and China amounted to .5 billion.

To broaden trade with China, Ontario' s investment mission will help build on the existing contributions of firms like global insurance giant Manulife Financial of Toronto, auto parts company Linamar Corporation of Guelph, Inscriber Technology Corporation of Waterloo, Nortel, Celestica, BTI Phototonic of Ottawa and AMR Technologies of Toronto."

"Our trading relationship is built on our friendship," said Premier McGuinty. "By working together with the people of China, and by building on the foundation we have forged, we can strengthen our economies and ensure our shared prosperity for years to come."