Canada expects to develop more forms of economic cooperation with Penang, particularly in the area of education, trade and tourism.
Governor-General of Canada David Johnston said that both sides are working hard to increase educational, business, trade and cultural relationships with each other.
“We are interested in pursuing further educational exchange between the universities here and in Canada,” Johnston told a press conference at the Eastern & Oriental Hotel.
Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng, who was also present, said that the state government and in general, Malaysians were happy to welcome Johnston to Penang.
“This is the first time a Governor-General from Canada is visiting Penang,” said Lim.
Fond greetings: Abdul Rahman (left) and Johnston exchange greetings when the duo met at the state banquet for the visiting governor-general of Canada Johnston then replied that although this was his first visit to Penang as a Governor-General, he had visited Penang before in another capacity.
“I was here 30 years ago for a conference. I see that Penang has preserved its wonderful beauty and history, especially with the conferment of the illustrious UNESCO World Heritage Site status,” he said.
Later, Johnston attended the official state banquet, which was hosted by the Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Dr Abdul Rahman Abbas.
“Both Canada and Penang have a history of bilateral relations that encompass politics, economy, trade and culture,” Abdul Rahman, said.
He also invited Johnston to visit Penang again as an overnight trip was insufficient to really know the state.
In his speech, Johnston said that companies such as Research In Motion (RIM) recognises the value of Penang and Malaysia as partners in innovation.
“They understand the attraction of a knowledgeable population, a first-class education system and a modern infrastructure set up to conceive innovative breakthroughs,” said Johnston.
He added that he plans to make another trip to Penang soon together with his eight grandchildren.
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