Under the leadership of Prime Minister Stephen Harper, the Government of Canada has been able to secure a number of important gains in our efforts to strengthen Canada-China relations.

For example, we secured the Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement — something Canada has sought for nearly two decades. This important protection agreement gives Canadian investors increased protection when conducting business in China, allowing them to invest their money safely. It also includes a most-favoured-nation commitment that protects Canadian investors against discrimination in China.

And, we reached an agreement giving Canada “Approved Destination Status” for Chinese tourists. Since 2009, Chinese tourism to Canada has skyrocketed, supporting jobs across the country.

But there is still more work to be done, and our government remains committed to building even stronger ties.

During his most recent official visit to China, Prime Minister Stephen Harper helped deliver on that commitment with a series of initiatives that will help increase Canada’s trade in the region.

This includes the increased use of China’s currency — the renminbi — in trade, commerce and investment between our two countries. This will help establish North America’s first offshore renminbi centre in Canada, leading to increased economic opportunities for Canadian businesses.

While in Beijing, the Prime Minister also oversaw a series of commercial signings between Canadian and Chinese firms. Together, these signings are expected to create more than 2,000 jobs in Canada. And, while in Hangzhou, the Prime Minister announced that Canada will open new trade offices in two of the fastest growing regions of China — the cities of Hangzhou, Xi’an, Xiamen and Tianjin. This will help Canadian businesses flourish and bring Canada’s trade network to a total of 15 locations across the country.

By expanding trade with China, the federal government is helping boost Canada’s economy in sectors such as agriculture, natural resources, energy and transportation.

Canadians can count on our government to continue engaging countries abroad in order to help increase economic opportunities and support job creation here at home.

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