DIEPPE, N.B. — The Atlantic Provinces Trucking Association (APTA) will be hosting its first-ever International Transportation Summit at the World Trade & Convention Centre in Halifax, N.S. Oct. 21-22.

Conference organizers are aiming to give a global perspective on the transportation industry in the 21st century, featuring presentations by world leaders in transportation and trade.

“This event will be an important forum for discussion and action on the challenges and opportunities we all share in the transportation industry,” said APTA executive director Peter Nelson. “Our summit transcends borders and unites all links in the supply chain, including road, rail, marine and air.”

The summit will lead off with a traditional kitchen party on the evening of Oct. 21 to give its international visitors a warm Maritime welcome.

Then it’s down to business on October 22, with concurrent morning sessions on a variety of timely transportation issues.

Keynote speaker for a noon hour luncheon will be Maria Luisa O’Connell, CEO of the United States-Mexico Border Trade Alliance.

The afternoon program will be highlighted with remarks by Stuart St. Clair, Roger King and US Governor Bill Graves, CEOs of road transport associations representing Australia, United Kingdom and the United States, respectively.

“We hope this summit will lead to further cooperation and collaboration by transportation stakeholders on key regional initiatives like Atlantica and Atlantic Gateway,” Nelson said. “By working together, we will create a gateway for global success.”