FOR RELEASE     #05-060
March 11, 2005

ANCHORAGE - Economic Development Minister Kenyon is pleased with the progress being made at the 4th Annual Canada Gala in Alaska.

"We have started discussions and we are encouraged by the mutual enthusiasm about the opportunities available to both Yukon and Alaska," Kenyon said. "The Canada Gala is a great occasion to deliberate and discuss strategies to move forward on both sides of the Yukon-Alaska border."

Kenyon and Community Services Minister Glenn Hart are attending the event with industry representatives, First Nation partners, Chamber of Commerce and Yukon government officials.

The Yukon delegation, hosted by the Yukon Chamber of Commerce and the Department of Economic Development, is promoting Yukon's role in infrastructure development including the proposed Alaska Highway pipeline, port access for Yukon at Skagway, the proposed Juneau access road and the Alaska-Canada railway feasibility study.

"We share a common vision of promoting key industries such as oil and gas, mining and tourism. Our discussions are focused on identifying and developing business opportunities for Yukoners on these initiatives and others. I'm confident we are also building stronger ties with our neighbors," Kenyon said.

Further Canada Gala discussions will key in on the economic, cultural, social and geographical linkages that are the foundation of the Yukon and Alaskan relationship.

The Canada Gala, organized through the Canadian Consulate is part of a yearly event in Alaska's largest city.

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