October 31, 2005
MLA Statement
Response to Bill 401

I would like to add my support to this bill and the World Trade University. The WTU represents a great opportunity for our province, and it would be unwise to turn our back on this. The establishment of the World Trade University fits quite well with our Asia-Pacific gateway strategy.

Once opened, the World Trade University, in addition to offering academic courses, will also host international trade conferences and events, including potential World Trade Forum events. The new WTU will draw both students and academics to Chilliwack and the Fraser Valley. The financial benefits will be sizable, pumping millions into our economy and providing jobs for hundreds, not only during its construction, but also upon its completion, with its doors open to students from around the world.

There are other worthy reasons to support this bill. As mentioned, the World Trade University is a global partnership, launched in May 2001 at the eighth World Summit of Young Entrepreneurs, as part of the third United Nations Conference on the Least Developed Countries. The World Trade University was a key outcome of that conference and was launched with the stated purpose of defining, shaping and influencing the most timely issues of trade. Along with this, it will bring a number of benefits to this province, including the ability to showcase British Columbia's advantages and opportunities in international trade. The WTU plans to help future trade leaders learn to better manage the challenges of multilateral trade systems so that prosperity is shared globally.

The WTU will be a bargain to the taxpayer. As a private university, WTU will not receive funding from the government. That being said, our government and our colleague from Maple Ridge–Mission believe so much in this project, the bill will entitle the university to a tax exemption for lands owned by the university and used for university purposes.

Prior to offering degrees, WTU will be required to go through the degree quality assessment process and receive consent from the Minister of Advanced Education under the Degree Authorization Act. By going through the degree quality assessment process, we will make certain that students will be provided with confidence in the quality of the degree programs.

The WTU will firmly establish British Columbia's role as Canada's gateway to Asia-Pacific and as a true global leader in trade relations. I hope all members of this Legislature support this bill put forth by our colleague from Maple Ridge–Mission. The World University will help increase our ties to the world, especially Asia.