MONTREAL, Que. — The Ministry of Transportation has announced plans for the development of the Ontario-Quebec Continental Gateway and Trade Corridor.

The action plan signed today will be undertaken over the next two years and has the following objectives:
– examine global markets and trade opportunities for Canada;
– target key initiatives with significant trade potential that will benefit all Canadians;
– prepare for the future by developing a strategy that responds to new trade patterns and trends; and
– address issues linked to transportation, such as protecting the environment, ensuring quality of life and enhancing the security of Canadians.

“Ontario and Quebec are vital contributors to the Canadian economy, representing about 60% of Canada’s exports and gross domestic product,” said the Honourable Donna Cansfield, Ontario Minister of Transportation. “Developing a sustainable transportation system that focuses on all transport options will keep our provinces globally competitive as a prime location for investment. Our partnership is good news for residents of Ontario, Quebec and all of Canada.”

Results will be delivered by working in partnership with the public and private sectors on a long-term strategy to support Canada’s international trade, particularly the strong economic relationship between Canada and the US.

In the shorter term, a private sector advisory committee that will share information and gather data to better understand international trade and transportation patterns will be established. They will also explore ways to optimize the connections between air, marine, road and rail transportation to better meet current and future demands in transportation.