Business leaders take positive message to Ottawa

The Alberta Enterprise Group (AEG) is leading a delegation of dozens of business leaders to the nation’s capital to build relationships and foster understanding between Alberta and the rest of Canada. 

Leader of the Official Opposition Michael Ignatieff, Finance Minister Jim Flaherty and many other Cabinet Ministers and Members of Parliament will engage in dialogue with the delegation. An invitation has been extended to Prime Minister Stephen Harper. 

The event, to be held from May 10-13, is called “Alberta Connects 2010.” The theme for the event is “Progress for a Province. Opportunity for a Nation.” 

“Throughout our nation’s history there have been instances where disunity has held Canada back,” said Alberta Enterprise Group President Tim Shipton. “This initiative will help build bridges between east and west that will pay dividends in the future for all Canadians.” 

Delegates from Alberta will represent all aspects of the Alberta economy – from travel and tourism to environmental technology. Over a three-day period the delegates will participate in a variety of roundtable discussions and sessions aimed at generating a genuine exchange of ideas and fostering mutual understanding. 

“Our message is clear,” said Shipton. “A strong Alberta benefits all Canadians. We’re ready and able to take a leadership role in clean energy production, and in order to achieve our potential as a province we need the rest of the nation to participate and reap the benefits.” 

“If we want Canadians to understand our province and its various challenges and opportunities we must reach out beyond our borders and initiate a dialogue,” added Shipton. “Once we do that, we’re better positioned to support a strong economic recovery across Canada.”