Ambassador of Canada visits blue economy in Ostend
Canada recognises the importance of a sustainable blue economy for employment on the coast and a healthy marine ecosystem, among other things. The Canadian government has therefore developed a specific strategy for the blue economy.
On Wednesday 25 January, a delegation of the Canadian Embassy in Brussels led by Mr. ambassador Alain Gendron visited Ostend. The delegation was given an extensive guided tour of the thriving Flemish blue economy ecosystem.
The programme included:
- A visit to the Flanders Marine Institute and the Marine Robotics Centre
- A presentation of Blue Cluster
- An introduction to seaweed chef Donald Deschagt
- A visit to Ostend Science Park
- A presentation of the Provincial Development Agency West Flanders
- A visit to Flanders Hydraulics Research
The Canadian delegation thought the visit was very interesting, and many shared interests were identified over the course of the day. The delegation members also saw many cooperation opportunities for the future, and promised to stay in touch to work together on a sustainable blue economy.
The delegation members were:
- Mr. Alain Gendron, Canadian Ambassador to Belgium and Luxembourg;
- Michelle Gartland, Commercial Counselor;
- Gert De Boever, Senior Investment Officer; and
- Charlotte Moreau, Cleantech Trade Commissioner.
