Minister Iris Evans to further Korea and Japan relations

International and Intergovernmental Relations Minister Iris Evans will promote Alberta’s economic, intergovernmental and cultural relationships in key Asian markets November 4-15.

“Korea and Japan are strong trading partners with Alberta, and Asian investment has helped drive Alberta’s oil sands development,” said Minister Evans. “This mission is an important opportunity to provide government and industry with an update on Alberta’s clean energy story.”
While in Korea, Minister Evans will sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Knowledge Economy, a move that will further encourage economic cooperation in the energy sector.

Other highlights of the mission include meetings with top ranking government officials in both Korea and Japan’s foreign affairs and trade ministries. Minister Evans will also participate in the Hokkaido Regional Leaders Forum in Japan, and meet with the Canadian Ambassadors to both Korea and Japan. Speaking engagements include a guest lecture at Meiji University in Tokyo and a presentation to the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Korea.

This mission builds on the work of earlier New West Partnership (NWP) missions by Premier Ed Stelmach, as well as agriculture ministers, who promoted trade and commerce opportunities between Western Canada and Asia. Minister Evans will continue to emphasize the importance of the NWP and hold follow-up meetings with Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Minister Evans will also take part in two special anniversaries while in Japan. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Alberta-Hokkaido twinning relationship and the 40th anniversary of the Alberta-Japan office.