May 31, 2007

Atlantica - A Promising Future

As tempting as it might be to continue debating the philosophical merits or demerits of Atlantica, the real reason people will be in Halifax June 14-16 is to discuss practical ideas to foster trade and economic opportunities. Atlantica is a region of economic cooperation, which includes the Atlantic Provinces, the northeastern United States and eastern Quebec.

Some may not like the idea of freer economic collaboration with the United States or any aspect of international trade. For some there is nothing to debate. They think globalization and local commerce are mutually exclusive.

But it's a fact that many companies in our region already operate and compete globally. They employ thousands of people, who pay taxes and contribute to their communities economically and socially. These companies and their employees embrace globalization. And it is hard to argue that historically this region of North America has been anything other than engaged in the global economy. While trade patterns have changed over the last century, many people were, and many still are, outwardly focused and confident in what they bring to the world.

It is also a fact that one of our greatest assets is our position on one of the three major transportation networks on the planet. Yet, within Atlantica, we have not come close to capitalizing on the huge advantage of our strategic location or maximized our potential. Cooperation, collaboration and regional strategic thinking just may help us realize our potential.

There is growing belief that we have an opportunity to embrace global trade and commerce as never before. We have what is required to succeed: well-educated people, highly developed transportation infrastructure, a reputation for quality and innovation, superb international networks, and an unsurpassed quality of life.

The discussion about Atlantica should not be framed as a debate about whether economic growth is good or bad. It is happening all around us. What we need to determine is how best to chart our own course in a global economy. Inevitably this raises questions. How can we define and pursue growth on our own terms? What are the terms? What do we really fear?

Last year the first Atlantica conference was held in Saint John, New Brunswick. The conference attracted national attention and brought together hundreds of people from the Northeastern region of North America. At the 2007 Atlantica Conference - Charting the Course, the focus is on some of the region's key assets and the role we can each play in making something exciting happen in this part of the world. Participants will learn from each other by discussing the issues, prospects and potential successes associated with increased trade and commerce in the region and what it would mean for citizens.

Atlantica is about capitalizing on the economic potential of living in a global economy. In Halifax this year, the Atlantic Provinces Chamber of Commerce is encouraging business, community and labour leaders to participate. By spending time together we might discover the tremendous potential Atlantica represents for all of us to lift our region up from a state of perpetual dependency and underperformance to a vibrant and prosperous economy to benefit everyone.

Bill Denyar, President & CEO
Atlantic Provinces Chambers of Commerce