Tuesday, February 7 2006 12:55 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Toronto: The Premier of Canada's Manitoba will lead a trade mission to India from February 11 to 17 top romote the fast-growing province known as 'gateway to North America' as also to strengthen political, economic and institutional ties.

Gary Does's mission is the largest in Manitoba history, featuring over 45 business leaders from 34 companies and institutions that would be exposed to emerging opportunities in India. The delegation, which also includes political leaders Bidhu Jha and Denis Rocan, will visit Amritsar, Chandigarh, New Delhi and Mumbai.

In addition to addressing business and industry leaders in Chandigarh and New Delhi, the premier will meet with the chief ministers of Delhi, Haryana, Punjab and Maharashtra, as well as top government officials.

In Mumbai, the premier will also address a gathering of the Indo-Canadian Business Chamber, which will launch a special edition of their Trade Links Magazine, highlighting the goals of Manitoba's mission to India and the advantages of doing business in the Canadian province.

"India is a stable, parliamentary democracy with one of the world's fastest growing economies and a large and industrious middle class. There is a demand for new goods and services, particularly in areas Such as agri-food, biotech,aviation, energy and education and training- all Manitoba strengths," Doer said in statement.

Manitoba also has a growing and prosperous Indian community. The Number of immigrants from India has increased in recent years, with India now in the top three among source countries of immigration to Manitoba. In 2004, Manitoba's two-way trade with India totalled $45 million.