Further to your article of Wednesday, October 6 entitled Liard First Nation Snubs Selwyn’s Party, I’d like to correct the record on some inaccuracies.
First, the Department of Economic Development did not host the Selwyn-Chihong event as stated. I acted as emcee, and the department provided some logistical support for the event, but it was hosted and paid for by Selwyn-Chihong.
Second, my statement referencing the transport delay of Yunnan Chihong’s gift was made in jest and taken out of context in the article. To report that the Yunnan Chihong executives “Éwere caught empty handed when it was their turn at the podium” is unfair and somewhat disrespectful.
Third, you describe Yunnan Chihong as “the Beijing-owned Chihong.” China is almost as big as Canada, with Kunming (the capital of Yunnan province) being over two thousand kilometres from Beijing. This geography is important in understanding Chinese partners and their internal relationships.
Fourth, while I would not normally mention this, the article misspells Mr. Qi’s name.
Yukon is increasingly connected to the global community. Working with outside investors with shared interests in Yukon is only one of the steps Yukon government is undertaking to improve economic opportunity for all Yukoners. The Yunnan Chihong investment of $100 million in their Yukon project will mean more high-paying jobs will be created in Yukon. We are working for continued success in this area.
Harvey Brooks, deputy minister
Economic Development