VANCOUVER – British Columbia and Queensland, Australia, will
work together to build relations on climate change action plans, education,
biotechnology, and other key sectors, and strengthen connections in the Asia-Pacific.
An agreement to explore joint
opportunities was signed last night by John van Dongen, B.C. Minister of State
for Intergovernmental Relations and Queensland’s
Trade Commissioner, the Honourable Peter Beattie.
“Queensland
and British Columbia
have strong existing ties through our health and medical organizations,
educational institutions, research networks, and tourism, and we look forward
to strengthening the relationship to deliver tangible benefits for both
jurisdictions,” said van
Dongen. “Queensland’s
strong economy, aggressive track record on climate action, and important
network throughout the Asia-Pacific region make this an excellent partnership
for both jurisdictions.”
This is the first agreement of its kind between B.C. and Queensland. The
agreement will see the two jurisdictions share information and best practices
in such areas as climate change, education, biotechnology and life
sciences, energy and resource management and development. It will also facilitate collaboration between and
the development of the knowledge-intensive sectors in each jurisdiction with a
view to increased international commercialisation. The agreement also
provides for increased engagement of the Asia-Pacific region to help improve
market access for both B.C. and Queensland
companies.
“B.C. and Queensland share
international relationships with some of the same jurisdictions, including Guangdong, China,
and Gyeonggi, Korea,” said Colin Hansen, B.C.
Minister of Economic Development. “This new partnership with Queensland creates new opportunities to
deepen our relations with Asia-Pacific jurisdictions and improve our market
access in this dynamic region.”
The agreement also provides for the exchange of information on
innovative fiscal initiatives and procurement models such as public-private
partnerships, regional economic development, and federalism approaches.
-30-
