Minister Raitt highlights Canadian innovation in the transportation sector - Meets with colleagues at the International Transport Forum's 2014 Summit

OTTAWA, May 22, 2014 /CNW/ - The Honourable Lisa Raitt, Canada's Minister of Transport, spoke on the importance of improved skills training to ensure safety as she met with global transportation leaders this week at the 2014 Summit of the International Transport Forum (ITF) held in Leipzig, Germany.

Minister Raitt met with her international counterparts from Germany, Turkey, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Japan and Ukraine. Discussions included enhanced cooperation and the sharing of best practices and lessons learned in areas such as rail safety and the transportation of dangerous goods, and strengthening links between transportation and trade.

Minister Raitt was a featured speaker in public sessions where she highlighted Canada's approach to innovation in the transport sector and the importance of having a skilled and sustainable workforce to ensure the safe and efficient movement of passengers and freight.

The theme of this year's Summit was Transport for a Changing World.

Quick Facts

• The International Transport Forum's annual Summit, held from May 21 to 23 this year, has brought together 1,100 participants from 69 countries, including transportation ministers, senior executives from the public and private sectors, industry stakeholders, top researchers, and members of the international media.
• It is the only international conference that addresses all modes of transport.
• France holds the Presidency of this year's Summit.

Quote

"The International Transport Forum provides a unique opportunity to discuss transportation challenges and implications for the global economy with my international counterparts. It allows participants to share innovative solutions to improve our transportation systems and to ensure their safety, security and efficiency."

The Honourable Lisa Raitt
Minister of Transport

Associated links

International Transport Forum's website

Opening plenary: Transport for a changing world (in the video section, click on the Session Recording)

Minister's pictures at ITF

 

SOURCE: Transport Canada

Contacts

Ashley Kelahear
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Lisa Raitt
Minister of Transport, Ottawa
613-991-0700

Media Relations
Transport Canada, Ottawa
613-993-0055

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