2 June 2005
New Zealand business in good position to develop strong economic relationships
New Zealand's strong fiscal position, low inflation, and very positive environment for business makes it a good choice
as a global partner in enterprise, Jim Anderton, Minister for Economic Development, told a group of Canadian business
people in Vancouver yesterday.
Jim Anderton was addressing the Canadian, Australian and New Zealand Business Association (CANZBA).
"There are a number of reasons for the success of the New Zealand economy. One of them is the developmental approach we
have taken in economic policy. This has meant emphasis is placed on increasing the level of research and development in
our businesses, increasing our skill levels and increasing our links to the world.
"For example, the government supports companies in the development of technology, the coordination of research and
promotion of innovation. We have instigated a Modern Apprenticeship scheme and support industry training. And we are
working to strengthen our international connections. Meeting CANZBA today is part of this work.
"New Zealand and Canada enjoy close and friendly relations. Our shared Commonwealth heritage, parliamentary, legal and
defence traditions, as well as people-to-people contacts, engender a similar world view. We both believe that
innovation, including the successful commercialisation of new products and services, is the key to a continuing
successful economy.
"I hope we will keep building new and stronger linkages between New Zealand and Canadian businesses," Jim Anderton said.
ENDS