News Release

FREDERICTON (CNB) - New Brunswick is sending a delegation to Biloxi, Miss., to attend a conference of the Southeastern Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers. Business New Brunswick Minister Victor Boudreau will lead the delegation, which will include representatives from seven New Brunswick companies and business organizations.

The objective is to boost trade relations, raise awareness of the advantages of doing business in New Brunswick and highlight Fredericton as the conference's host jurisdiction in 2011.

"As the most export-dependent province in Canada, it is important for New Brunswick to reach beyond our traditional markets in Canada and New England," said Boudreau. "We are happy to be joined by six dynamic New Brunswick companies that are excellent ambassadors for our province's leading-edge businesses."

The minister will be joined by representatives from J.D. Irving Ltd.; Remsoft Inc.; Enterprise Chaleur representing the Port of Belledune; HSM Systems Inc.; CLS Communication Holding Ltd. (Lexitech); Professional Quality Assurance Ltd.; and Enterprise Moncton.

"To achieve self-sufficiency, we must show the world that New Brunswick is open for business and is open for new partnership opportunities that will shape the way governments and companies around the world do business." said Boudreau.

A highlight of the mission will be the New Brunswick closing lunch, to be held Tuesday, April 13. Delegates will enjoy authentic New Brunswick fare ranging from fiddleheads to smoked salmon supplied by New Brunswick producers.

Boudreau will also give conference delegates a snapshot of what to expect when New Brunswick hosts the fourth annual conference in 2011.

"Eastern Canadian premiers and southern United States governors will have a chance to meet New Brunswick's best and brightest companies, some of the world's finest entrepreneurs and globally recognized companies led by business veterans," he said.