Mackay to lead Canada's business mission to India

Canadian Minister of National Defence and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) Peter MacKay will lead an Atlantic Gateway- focused business mission to India from February 18 to 22.

The mission will meet key business forums in New Delhi and Mumbai and promote Canada's Atlantic Gateway to Indian shippers, business leaders, and key government figures.

MacKay will be accompanied by provincial government representatives and a private sector delegation representing airports, ports, railways, and transportation- related associations active in Atlantic Canada.

"The development of Canada's Gateways and Trade Corridors is part of our government's commitment to facilitating international trade and increasing our national competitiveness by linking North America to the world," MacKay said in a statement.

"This mission demonstrates our Government's continuing partnership with the four Atlantic Provinces to develop the Atlantic Gateway initiative," MacKay said.

"The Atlantic Gateway is an important part of the Government of Canada's strategy to improve out trade competitiveness through gateways which connect North America with the world," Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities Lawrence Cannon said in support of the mission.

"We consider India to be a priority market and this mission will provide Canadian businesses with the chance to develop and strengthen commercial ties with their Indian counterparts," the minister said.

Ministers from all four Atlantic Provinces will participate in the mission.