SASKATOON, SASKATCHEWAN -- (Marketwire) -- 09/13/12 -- Today, the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, met with national and international delegates attending the Saskatchewan portion of the Canada India Agriculture and Food Processing Forum to highlight the Harper Government's commitment to trade and investment with India.

"Our Government recognizes India's growing importance as a leader in global commerce, as well as its development into one of the world's largest emerging markets," said Minister Yelich. "Creating new export markets for Canadian-made products will stimulate economic growth which will preserve our Canadian economic advantage now and in the future."

In Canada, the agriculture and food industry is a strong driver of jobs and growth. The Canadian food and beverage processing industry alone is Canada's largest manufacturing industry and is also the largest manufacturing employer. As countries seek out new ways to feed growing populations, Canada will work with the agriculture and food sector in India to help both industries meet challenges and capture new opportunities.

The Forum was held in Vancouver, BC on September 10-11, moving to Saskatoon on September 12-13 for subsequent tours, panel sessions and ending with conference highlights. Topics discussed in Saskatoon included: Land Resource Management; Plants and Animals; Post-Harvest and Value-Added; and Trade, Investment and market access.

Since 2006, the Harper Government, through WD, has invested in job-creating small and medium-sized businesses, aerospace, marine and defence industries, and supported innovative entrepreneurs in pursuing emerging markets. By continuing to promote new economic opportunities, WD is helping to create jobs, economic growth, and long-term prosperity.

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