Tapping into expanding markets in India and China was the central focus of the 2011 Speech from the Throne, delivered Tuesday afternoon by Lt.-Gov. Donald S. Ethell to kick off the legislature's spring sitting.
"One thing the global recession made clear is that Alberta can no longer rely on a single market of 300 million people — not when there are prosperous markets of more than a billion people we have yet to tap," said Premier Ed Stelmach, in a statement on Tuesday.
At present, about 85 per cent of the province's exports head south to the United States.
"Countries like China and India are developing rapidly, and there is growing demand there for products Alberta has, including food products, energy and wood fibres. We need to take advantage of these opportunities," Stelmach said.
Following the throne speech, Stelmach tabled Bill 1 of the legislative session, the Asia Advisory Council Act, which aims to enhance Alberta's relationship with Asian markets, specifically India, China, Japan and Korea.
Port capacity
Improving Western Canada's port capacity was another focus of Tuesday's speech.
"It is in the national interest that Western Canada has improved port capacity — whether by pipeline or rail — that will open the door to Asia's rapidly growing markets," said Ethell.
He said improving direct air service to Asian markets was also necessary for trade and investment opportunities.
Investing in infrastructure was another theme. The province said it will continue to look to its 20-year capital plan to build priority projects such as schools, hospitals, roads and long-term care facilities.
Continued investment in major economic corridors, such as Highway 43 near Sturgeon Lake and the ongoing twinning of Highway 63 were also mentioned.
On education, the government said it plans to build capacity for local decision-making and foster broader community engagement in the education system.
It also plans to better equip the education system to offer more flexible, engaging and personalized learning and to support mature workers and groups that are currently underrepresented in the workforce.
The throne speech also touched on several health care strategies, including a co-ordinated provincial cancer strategy and a comprehensive Addiction and Mental Health Strategy.
The government said it also aims to gather input from Albertans regarding the new Alberta Health Act, which includes a Health Charter and the appointment of a health advocate, later this year.
Other highlights of the throne speech included adding 1,000 continuing care spaces this year, and another 5,300 by 2015; completing a groundwater mapping and inventory program; and bring broadband Internet access to every home in Alberta.
