TORONTO, Oct. 27, 2011 -- The creation of a Canadian initiative to build natural resource management capacity in developing countries has been welcomed by CESO (Canadian Executive Service Organization).
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today announced the establishment of the Canadian Institute for Extractive Industries and Development, which will draw from Canada’s long and successful leadership in the extractive sector to identify best practices for individual partner countries. In addition, the Institute will work in partnership with federal government, Canadian private sector and non-profit organizations to offer technical assistance to communities.
As one of Canada's leading volunteer-based development organizations, CESO recognizes the need in developing countries for the knowledge, skills and experience to better manage natural resources and to promote sustainable economic development as a means to reducing poverty. "In particular, we believe that communities benefit from active participation in the planning process. Our partnership model focuses on providing one-on-one technical expertise in extractive industry projects through both private and public sector involvement," said Wendy Harris, CESO CEO.
For more than 40 years, CESO volunteers, who are unique in their senior level of professional experience, have focused on helping individuals and organizations build strong, viable businesses and independent communities. This includes a history of successful projects working with partners in the extractive sector in developing countries. Recently, our expert volunteer advisors provided technical assistance in South America to develop sustainable mining best practices for a national association.
CESO considers the creation of the Institute a demonstration of Canada’s commitment to furthering this kind of assistance in developing countries, and to helping to establish responsible, sustainable mining practices that will provide long-term benefits for individuals and communities around the world.
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Contact:
Sheri Watson