When the China LNG International Summit kicks off this week, Huu-ay-aht First Nations will be represented, along with the Nations partner Steelhead LNG.
Huu-ay-aht Councillor John Jack and Executive Director James Edwards will travel to Beijing to attend the summit. They will be gone from April 20 to 25, and the conference runs from April 22 to 24. It is an opportunity to gain more information about the industry, but also a chance to meet with some of the decision makers within the LNG community.
“It is the first in a series of conferences taking place around the world in the next year,” John Jack explains. “While there, we will attend information sessions, networking events and interface with companies and countries involved at all stages of the value chain of LNG.”
He says it also offers the opportunity to tour an LNG off-take and regasification facility near Beijing.
Steelhead LNG CEO Nigel Kuzemko will be joined at the event with other representatives from Steelhead, and he is one of the speakers on the first day of the conference. Kuzemko will join other industry leaders from around the world to offer a Global LNG Supply Update, called “Which Projects are Destined for Success in the China Market?” on April 22.
Huu-ay-aht representatives have no official role at the conference, but John Jack says they are there to observe, learn and aid Steelhead as it promotes the marketing plan for the proposed LNG Project.
“Huu-ay-aht has expressed a willingness and concerted effort to express our openness to development and trade to the business and wider world,” John Jack says. “This trip will be an opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to improving our economic conditions while retaining our distinct identity and honouring the values that make us who we are.”
He adds that this trip will also offer a chance to pursue connections and opportunities for the Port Alberni Trans-shipment Hub, export of forestry and fishery products, investments and tourism exposure. John Jack says, in general, the Nation is seeking a wider array of opportunities for economic development, and attending the conference is a step in that direction.
“We hope to come back with more knowledge and connections, as well as a higher profile locally, regionally, nationally and internationally,” he says.