Canada Enhancing Research Collaboration Opportunities with Japan

WATERLOO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Nov. 21, 2011) - Canada and Japan need to build on the success of their research collaborations to strengthen their knowledge economies, said the Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State (Science and Technology) (Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario). Minister of State Goodyear delivered opening remarks today at the Canada–Japan Bilateral Workshop on Nanotechnology at the University of Waterloo. The two-day event highlights collaboration between universities and businesses from both countries in support of innovation.

"There are tremendous opportunities for international researchers and businesses to come to Canada and invest in research and development," said Minister of State Goodyear. "This conference allows us to showcase opportunities in nanotechnology and promote stronger linkages with Canadian researchers and innovators. The relationship we are building will benefit the Canadian and Japanese economies."

The conference drew a number of high-profile delegates, including His Excellency Kaoru Ishikawa, Ambassador of Japan to Canada and Mr. Yasuyoshi Kakita, Director of the Generic Research and Research Platform Division of Japan's Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology.

In his address to the conference delegates, Minister of State Goodyear highlighted 25 years of Canadian and Japanese cooperation in science and technology. He encouraged further research collaboration, noting that technological development, research and innovation are going to be critical to the continued economic growth and advancement of both countries.

To learn more about the Government of Canada's science and technology initiatives, visit the Science and Technology for Canadians website (science.gc.ca).