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12 WINTER 2024 … FOSTERING ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT THROUGH TRADE? NAVIGATING MANITOBA'S TRADE LANDSCAPE CONT. – Alexandre Côté, Regional director of the Trade Commissioner Service for Manitoba and Saskatchewan, Global Affairs Canada "Canada maintains diplomatic missions across the U.S. to ensure its voice is heard and employs trade policy analysts in Ottawa to understand and help address the impacts of trade decisions. It is essential to recognize that no two nations are more interdependent for their mutual prosperity and economic security than the United States and Canada. The U.S. needs Manitoba!" SUBMITTED PHOTO Alexandre Côté: We recognize that trade is not "one size fits all." Global Affairs Canada actively sup- ports groups traditionally under-represented in trade to fully participate and take advantage of opportunities in international trade. This support includes ensuring that trade agreements reflect their needs, offering cus- tomized programs through the TCS and working across government to develop evidence-based policies and programs. Economic reconciliation is key to fostering economic development in Manitoba. This involves ensuring that Indigenous communities have equitable access to economic development opportunities, the ability to generate long-term revenue, govern resource usage and fully participate in Canada's domestic and international economy. The top priority for economic reconcilia- tion is further investment in infrastructure within Indigenous communities, as closing the infrastructure gap is essential for economic development. Additionally, the TCS has undertaken initiatives to enhance Manitoba and Canada's ability to attract foreign direct investment. Initiatives like this offer numerous advantages to our businesses and give them a competitive edge in interna- tional markets. Jamie Moses: The province is taking a proactive ap- proach to fostering eco- nomic development through trade and investment. Our province's continual support for CentrePort, our economic trade hub and the largest tri- modal inland port in North America, will help it continue to serve as an essential hub for various cargo operations. Additionally, Manitoba's investments in the Port of Churchill increase oppor- tunity to link these trade zones and continue expand- ing global supply chain activities. There is so much potential in linking Manitoba to global trade markets. Right in the heart of the continent, Manitoba is an ideal place for companies engaged in global supply chain activities. We are developing a comprehensive trade and investment strategy to ad- dress challenges impacting

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