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January 15, 2009
Ministers to promote Alberta and Canadian agriculture at U.S. Summit
Decision makers discuss key issues affecting agriculture and rural development
Edmonton... George Groeneveld, Minister of Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development, and Lloyd Snelgrove, President of Treasury Board, will promote Alberta’s agriculture and agri-food industry and highlight key agricultural trade issues at the Legislative Agriculture Chairs Summit in San Diego, California from January 23 to 25.
“We have a highly integrated North American agri-food industry, and in these uncertain economic times it is even more important to bring a collaborative approach to advancing our respective agriculture industries and addressing trade barriers,” said Groeneveld. “The U.S. is our largest trading partner, and in 2007 Alberta’s agriculture and agri-food exports to the U.S. were $2.7 billion.”
The annual summit, organized by the State Agriculture and Rural Leaders (SARL) Board, brings together government decision makers from the United States and Canada to broaden understanding and cooperation between our two countries in the area of agriculture. State legislative agriculture chairs and provincial ministers of agriculture, or their designates, will discuss a number of common issues including environmental regulations, farm profitability, rural development and agricultural trade.
Snelgrove has served as the first and only Canadian member of the SARL Board since 2006.
“Agriculture is an important part of our economy and at the centre of many Alberta communities,” said Snelgrove. “I am very pleased to be an active member of this organization. SARL has created a positive forum for constructive discussions, and there is nothing more effective than face-to-face meetings to strengthen relationships and address tough issues.”
The Government of Alberta’s estimated costs of the trip for the two ministers is $4,100.
Attachment: Backgrounder with itinerary.
Media inquiries may be directed to:
Ag Media Line |
Gerald Kastendieck |
To call toll free within Alberta dial 310-0000.
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State Agriculture and Rural Leaders (SARL) - Legislative Agriculture Chairs Summit
Minister Groeneveld general itinerary*
January 21 |
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January 22 |
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January 23 |
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January 24 |
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January 25 |
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Minister Snelgrove general itinerary*
January 19 |
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January 20-21 |
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January 22 |
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January 23 |
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January 24 |
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January 25 |
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January 26 |
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*This itinerary is tentative and subject to change
Media inquiries may be directed to:
Ag Media Line |
Gerald Kastendieck |
To call toll free within Alberta dial 310-0000.
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