General News

May 31, 2016

Mayor Goldring and Mayor Berends of Apeldoorn sign Expression of Interest to foster economic development between cities

Office of the Mayor

Media Release

Burlington, Ont., May 31, 2016 – Mayor Rick Goldring and Apeldoorn Mayor John Berends signed an Expression of Interest today at Burlington City Hall to promote economic development opportunities between the two cities.

The Expression of Interest focuses on advancing potential partnerships in three specific areas, including:

• Clean technology sector development;
• Trade partnerships;
• And an exchange program for post-secondary students.

The Burlington Economic Development Corporation will lead discussions on behalf of the City of Burlington.

“Based on conversations during our visit to Apeldoorn last spring, as well as meetings this week, we have agreed on three specific areas of opportunity we are looking to pursue,” said Mayor Rick Goldring. “Apeldoorn is a natural economic partner due to our twinning agreement, as well as its prominent clean technology sector as it relates to Burlington’s Community Energy Plan.”

Today’s signing furthers the twinning agreement established between the cities of Apeldoorn, the Netherlands and Burlington, Canada on May 6, 2005. The twinning agreement states that the cities will explore economic development and new business opportunities.

“Apeldoorn is interested in furthering business with Burlington,” said Mayor John Berends. “Several of our companies are interested in Canadian partnerships, especially in a city like Burlington where we have already established a good working relationship.”

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