JINAN, China - An independent Quebec would have problems making trade deals around the world, according to Premier Jean Charest, who made the comments while on tour in China.
Charest, leading an international trade mission in China until Friday, said Quebec has no need to become a separate country to conquer new markets or establish relations with foreign countries.
The Quebec Premier pointed out that even though he does not lead a separate state, he was given a meeting with China's foreign affairs minister, considered the second-in-command in the Chinese government.
Charest believes that Quebec attracts more international interest because it forms part of Canada.
He argued that Quebec must learn to become a force on the international scene and simplify its relations with the world, while maintaining its status as a Canadian province.
Since the start of his China mission earlier this week, Charest has promoted his business opportunities with frequent reference to, "Canada and Quebec."
The Premier was received by Shandong Province Premier Jiang Daming who –- contrary to custom -- allowed both Chinese and Quebec media to attend the meeting.
Jiang praised Quebec's Northern Plan, citing his province's great desire to invest in the north of Quebec.
Shandong province has a great need for natural resources and the governor said that it had already invested $3.5 billion in Australia since 2008 to obtain coal and bauxite.
Shandong, the homeland of Confucius, has 95 million residents and is China's third largest province, economically.
