The Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada Congratulates New Government of Canada

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwired - Oct. 20, 2015) - The Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada (APF Canada) congratulates the Liberal Party of Canada on the results of yesterday's 42nd general election, and looks forward to working with the new government in advancing Canada-Asia relations.

Established by an Act of Parliament in 1984, APF Canada supports Canada and Canadians in engaging with the Asia Pacific region by producing timely research, innovative projects, and actionable advice.

"Asia accounts for over half of the world's population and by 2030 will be home to over 65 per cent of the global middle class," said APF Canada President and CEO, Stewart Beck. "Asia is going to be increasingly important to Canada for decades to come, and in order to seize these new opportunities and be relevant and effective in the region, Canada needs to intensify its efforts in Asia."

With Canada's ratification of the historic, 12-member Trans-Pacific Partnership agreement pending, and the convening in the Philippines mid-November of APEC's Economic Leaders' Meeting, CEO Summit and Business Advisory Council, this is a crucial time for Canada in the Asia Pacific.

"An important component of Canada's engagement with Asia is building Canada's Asia competence, including providing Canadian youth with a deeper understanding of the countries and peoples of Asia, and giving them the right tools to succeed in the global economy," said Beck. "APF Canada is currently spearheading a national initiative on Asia competency, and looks forward to collaborating with the new government on its youth employment strategy, which includes the investment of $40 million annually to support student co-op positions."

Added Beck: "We must all work together to encourage Canadians, particularly young Canadians, to acquire the necessary skills and tools they need to succeed in the Asian Century."

About the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada:

The Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada (APF Canada) is a not-for-profit organization focused on Canada's relations with Asia. Our mission is to be Canada's catalyst for engagement with Asia and Asia's bridge to Canada.

A leader in research and analysis on Canada-Asia relations for over 30 years, APF Canada partners with government, business leaders, academics, and opinion makers in Canada and across the Asia Pacific region to offer clear, specific, and actionable policy advice.

Established by an Act of Parliament in 1984, APF Canada's thematic priorities include: promoting trade, investment, and innovation; mobilizing energy assets; building skills and competencies; and, understanding Asia now.

Visit APF Canada at www.asiapacific.ca.