Bennett Jones opens new office in Beijing, China

TORONTO, Sept. 29 /CNW/ - Bennett Jones today announced the opening of a Beijing representative office as part of the firm's ongoing commitment to the Canada-China relationship.

"We are excited to add Beijing to our platform," says Bennett Jones Chairman and CEO, Hugh MacKinnon. "Our new office will build on Bennett Jones' commitment to serve clients engaged in building Canada-China trade, investment and financial relationships."

Toronto managing partner, Stephen Bowman further adds, "This office increases our ability to assist clients in both countries to participate in the rapid expansion of Canada-China business in sectors ranging from trade in goods and services to technology transfers, joint ventures, and investment."  Calgary managing partner, Perry Spitznagel confirms, "This step reflects our commitment to be active long-term players in the continuing development of the energy and natural resources sector both domestically and internationally."

Senior Advisor and Chief Representative, Margaret Cornish will provide liaison in Beijing to serve both existing and prospective clients in Canada-China investment, trade and other transactions.

On joining Bennett Jones, Ms. Cornish says,"I look forward to drawing on my China-related capital markets, banking, and bilateral investment and trade promotion experience to assist both Canadian and Chinese clients. I also believe that Chinese clients will value from the unique mixture of legal, industry and public policy expertise that Bennett Jones provides."

Margaret, a former Executive Director of the Canada China Business Council, began her career with the Canadian Foreign Service and her postings abroad have included Beijing, New York and Brussels. She subsequently joined the Bank of Nova Scotia where she worked on sovereign debt restructuring. Margaret later joined Scotia Capital Markets where she provided coverage on a wide range of Canadian industrial companies in manufacturing, automotive, steel, building products, engineering and heavy equipment industries.

About Bennett Jones

Bennett Jones is a leading business law firm founded and focused on principles of professional excellence, integrity, respect and independent thought. Our firm's leadership position is reflected in the law we practise, the groundbreaking work we do, the client relationships we have, and the quality of our people.

For further information:

please contact:

Hugh MacKinnon
Chairman & CEO, Bennett Jones
416.777.4810