Prince George, B.C.- Today marks day one of the two day Natural Resource forum being held at the Prince George Civic Centre.

 

The theme for this, the 8^th annual forum, is “New Partnerships - New Markets” and will feature a focus on the opportunities presented by the Asia – Pacific Gateway and partnerships with First Nations.

 

Hideki Ito, the Consul General for Japan will deliver the keynote address this morning that will start the day’s events.   That address will be followed by Yeon-Ho Choi the Consul General for Korea, and by Jim Jia of L.J Resources Company Ltd.

 

Today’s panel discussion, (which gets underway at 2 p.m.) continues on the Asia-Pacific Gateway with those who have experienced the building of relationships through to the shipping of products.

 

Later this afternoon, former Prime Minister, Paul Martin will address attendees. His address will focus on the “Martin Aboriginal Education Initiative” (MAEI).

 

The MAEI has initiated various educational projects designed to provide Aboriginal Canadians with the opportunities they need to succeed. MAEI brings together Aboriginal organizations, accounting professionals, the business community, post-secondary institutions, First Nation schools and provincially-funded school boards to implement programs to support Aboriginal students.

 

The goal  is to support initiatives that improve education at the elementary and secondary levels for Aboriginal Canadians.