BC NDP

Event marks 35 years since B.C. Premier Dave Barrett led first Canadian delegation to China

VANCOUVER -- New Democrat Leader Carole James today hosted a roundtable to discuss ways in which British Columbia can strengthen its trade ties and maximize economic development opportunities with China.

Today’s roundtable reflects the Official Opposition’s ongoing work reaching out to a variety of financial experts and groups to help inform its economic policy.

“As business leaders in your community, your input is valuable to us, as the New Democrat Official Opposition reaches out to experts from different backgrounds, communities and financial sectors to help shape our economic vision,” said James, addressing a group of prominent Chinese-Canadian business leaders from the Metro Vancouver area. “It’s well-recognized that China is an increasingly significant global economic force. And it’s important that we continue the dialogue with experts and stay abreast of the emerging economic factors in order to maximize the opportunities between the two trading partners.”

“As business experts, we value your participation and advice on how B.C. can strengthen and expand its economic ties with China,” said James. “And we look forward to fostering this dialogue and enhancing this relationship as we move forward.”

James, who was joined by Finance Critic Bruce Ralston and Economic Development Critic Jenny Kwan, noted that the roundtable marks 35 years of B.C.- China friendship, commemorating the first ever visit of a provincial delegation to China under a former New Democrat government. In November 1974, B.C. Premier Dave Barrett led a delegation to China, becoming the first Canadian provincial premier to do so.

“It was 35 years ago that an economic dialogue was initiated between our province and China,” said James. “And I can’t think of a better day to hold a discussion about building on the important work that was started years ago.”