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WASHINGTON, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA -- (Marketwire) -- 03/15/13 -- The Honourable Tony Clement, President of the Treasury Board, wrapped up a series of meetings with high-level officials and business leaders in Washington.

Minister Clement met with members of the Obama Administration, representatives of state legislatures and business leaders to enhance bilateral relations and highlight shared strategic objectives with the United States on a range of issues, including regulatory cooperation, pipeline development and multilateral free trade agreements.

"Our relationship with the United States is the single most important bilateral energy relationship in the world, with Canada remaining the largest source of secure, stable and environmentally responsible oil for the United States," said Minister Clement. "Ongoing development in Canada's oil sands is already supporting tens of thousands of jobs on both sides of our shared border. With infrastructure such as Keystone XL, that number would grow."

Minister Clement also highlighted the Government of Canada's commitment to cutting red tape. "The Government has one of the most ambitious red-tape- cutting initiatives in the world today, underscoring Canada's reputation as one of the best places in the world to do business and invest," said the Minister. "These cuts are excellent examples of how our Government's Red Tape Reduction Action Plan is translating into real savings for businesses in Canada."

The three-day visit also provided an opportunity for Minister Clement to seek cooperation on open data initiatives. "The Open Data movement is an exciting and potentially groundbreaking opportunity to access rich stores of government data and transform it into user-friendly applications that offer economic opportunity and enhance the quality of life of Canadians," added Minister Clement. "The Government is committed to capitalizing on the possibilities that Open Data offers to drive innovation and provide economic opportunities."

The Government of Canada remains focused on what Canadians care most about: their families, the safety of our streets and communities, their pride in being a citizen of this country, and their personal financial security.

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Contacts:
Matthew Conway
Press Secretary
Office of the President of the Treasury Board
and Minister responsible for FedNor
613-957-2666

Media Relations
Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat
613-957-2640