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07.11.2024

Lord Swire’s Strategic Visit to Edmonton: Exploring Opportunities with Alberta’s Key Leaders and Industries

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As part of an exploratory two day mission to deepen our strategic partnership with the Government of Alberta and explore new business opportunities, Lord Swire, Deputy Chairman of the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC), embarked on a visit to Edmonton, Alberta last week. This visit highlighted the growing relationship between CWEIC and the Government of Alberta, strengthening bonds in trade, innovation, and investment. The Government of Alberta was recently named CWEIC’s new strategic partner.

Lord Swire’s day commenced with a productive meeting with ADM Jennifer Jabs from Alberta Jobs, Economy, and Trade. The discussions focused on Alberta’s commitment to international trade and economic collaboration, showcasing Alberta’s vast economic potential and business-friendly environment.

In the afternoon, Lord Swire and his team met with Edmonton Global and invited businesses, providing insights into Alberta’s vibrant business landscape and exploring potential opportunities within the Commonwealth. Known as a leader in hydrogen technology, Alberta boasts an impressive ecosystem in sectors such as AI, agriculture, and energy, including one of the world’s largest reserves of oil and an abundant supply of natural minerals. The province’s stronghold in the hydrogen sector, particularly, positions it as a global leader, presenting unparalleled opportunities for investment and development.

Lord Swire was honoured to meet with the Hon Danielle Smith, Premier of Alberta. Discussions touched on Alberta’s unique economic landscape, emphasising the province’s vast resources and promising potential for Commonwealth investors. Alberta’s competitive tax regime and favorable regulatory landscape make it an ideal partner for investment, positioning it as a fertile ground for diverse sectors, from agri-tech to AI.

*Courtesy call with the Hon Danielle Smith, Premier of Alberta*

The final day in Edmonton saw Lord Swire call upon the Hon Brian Jean, Minister of Energy and Minerals (TBC) and the Hon Nathan Neudorf, Minister of Affordability and Utilities. A lunch followed with the Hon Nathan Cooper, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta.

They discussed alignment in values and vision shared between Alberta and the Commonwealth, emphasising their mutual interest in sustainable growth, innovation, and cross-border collaboration. Lord Swire was also very pleased to receive a tour of the Alberta Legislature.

*Courtesy call with the Honourable Nathan Neudorf, Minister of Affordability and Utilities*

*Lunch with Honourable Nathan Cooper, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta*

Reflecting on the trip, Lord Swire remarked on Alberta’s unique position within North America as a growth-centric, business-friendly region with a globally significant resource base. His observations underscored the potential for CWEIC to facilitate robust partnerships across a range of sectors, from agribusiness to energy, fostering enhanced connectivity and collaboration across the Commonwealth.

CWEIC wants to thank David Kettles, Andrew Bennett, for their dedicated coordination and exceptional hospitality throughout the visit, and Klaus Buttner.