Canada celebrates China links

By Wang Yanlin | 2009-12-5 | NEWSPAPER EDITION

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CANADA is committed to enhancing and expanding its ties with China and expects "a good and frank relationship" to build on, Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper said yesterday in Shanghai.

During a speech at the Canada-China Centennial Business Dinner at the Hyatt on the Bund to celebrate Canada's century-old trade commissioner service in Shanghai, Harper said both countries should further cooperate to boost bilateral trade and investment, as well as continue efforts to combat the global economic downturn and growing protectionism.

"For ours is a good and frank relationship based on mutual respect and the need for cooperation in today's challenging world," Harper said, addressing more than 500 business leaders.

"Canada looks forward to continuing to strengthen its relationship with China based on common interests such as trade and investment, public health, the environment, energy efficiency, global economic recovery and governance."

Harper also announced Canada's second-round funding under the Asia-Pacific Partnership on Clean Development and Climate.

Canada will invest in 28 clean-technology projects worldwide, including 14 new projects in or of benefit to China.

Canada is also launching four new trade offices in China to enhance its ability to support even more commercial links in exports, investment and innovation between the two countries, he said.

Harper urged all leaders to stand firm against protectionist pressure. "Protectionism is the single greatest threat to long-term recovery for Canada, for China, and for the entire world economy," he said.

This morning, Harper is to visit the Canada Pavilion with Mark Rowswell, Canada's Commissioner General for World Expo 2010.

Canada was among the first batch of countries to confirm participation in the Expo.