The legislative session's fall opening this week will have a larger number of distinguished guests than usual, as diplomats from more than 50 countries converge on the province for a special mission showcasing Saskatchewan to a global audience.
Heads of Mission from Ottawa's foreign diplomatic corps will be in Saskatchewan October 19 to 23 for an economic mission hosted by the provincial and federal governments and the federal Speaker of the House of Commons, Andrew Scheer.
"It's great to see so many representatives of other countries showing such a tremendous interest in Saskatchewan," Premier Brad Wall said. "We have a great story to tell them about our province. Our economy is strong and we are exporting more products than ever before to countries all over the world. Saskatchewan is a leader in Canada in trade, innovation and education."
The opening of the Legislative Assembly and Speech from the Throne on October 22 is just one part of a busy schedule which includes presentations by provincial and federal cabinet ministers on the economy, business climate, trade, international education and public-private partnerships.
The diplomats will visit RCMP "Depot" Division, Evraz Steel and Brandt Industries. Their tour options include the University of Saskatchewan; the Global Transportation Hub, the Petroleum Technology Research Centre and the Mosaic Company's potash mine at Belle Plaine; and SaskPower's new carbon capture and storage facility at Boundary Dam Power Station.
"Diplomatic engagement with nations around the world is vital for us as we work to advance Saskatchewan's ambitious trade agenda and the other goals in the Saskatchewan Plan for Growth," Wall said. "We thank federal Speaker Scheer and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Development for working with us to make this worthy initiative happen."
