NEW WEST PARTNERSHIP CELEBRATES 2ND ANNIVERSARY

The governments of Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia are celebrating the two-year anniversary and implementation date of the New West Partnership.

"Signing the New West Partnership cemented the strong relationship between our three provinces and highlighted our region's growth-friendly policies," said Saskatchewan Premier Brad Wall. "I'm proud of our accomplishments and excited about the potential we're unlocking in the New West. This partnership supports the Saskatchewan Advantage."

British Columbia Premier Christy Clark added: "The New West Partnership is the gold standard across Canada in removing inter-provincial trade barriers. It proves that the best way to create jobs and lasting prosperity is by working together to make our economies more competitive by reducing red-tape, streamlining regulation and creating a common business market. Not only has the New West Partnership helped to set the three provinces as economic leaders in Canada, but we are also better positioned to access important Asia Pacific markets."

"More than ever, Alberta's economy is tied to events outside our borders," noted Alberta Premier Alison Redford. "Promoting ourselves internationally and continually improving our competitiveness are the keys to growing Alberta's prosperity. Through the New West Partnership, we're building on our regional strength as an economic engine of Canada."

Signed in April 2010, the New West Partnership represents an unprecedented agreement between the three provinces to lower interprovincial trade barriers and harmonize regulations, making it easier for businesses and consumers to benefit from economic growth. Since coming into effect on July 1, 2010, the agreement's two-year anniversary marks the implementation of a host of growth-friendly initiatives, including commitments to pursue international co-operation, innovation and joint government purchasing.

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For more information, contact:

Joanne Johnson
Saskatchewan Ministry of the Economy
Regina
Phone: 306-798-0503
Email: Joanne.Johnson@enterprisesask.ca

Robert Pauliszyn
BC Intergovernmental Relations Secretariat
Victoria
Phone: 250-356-5963
Email: Robert.Pauliszyn@gov.bc.ca  

Kim Misik
Office of the Premier of Alberta
Edmonton
Phone: 780-422-4905
Email: Kim.Misik@gov.ab.ca