Expanded relationships, business deals, agreements between universities, and new office openings were highlighted today by Premier Christy Clark as successes achieved during the BC Jobs and Trade Mission to India and China.

The 2011 Provincial Nesika Awards were presented to an organization, an individual and a business that contribute to enhancing respect and embracing British Columbia's diverse cultures.

As part of Multiculturalism Week, the Province is launching "BC People: Portraits of Diversity in BC," a new book that profiles 51 British Columbians from a variety of cultural backgrounds living in every region of B.C.

The official openings of an elderly care centre and elementary school complete the $8-million Canada-B.C. Earthquake Reconstruction Initiative, announced by the Honourable Joe Oliver, Canada's Minister of Natural Resources and Pat Bell, Minister Jobs, Tourism and Innovation.

When Pelesys Learning Systems of Richmond recently sealed the deal on a contract to provide aviation training solutions to the giant Comac, China's national aircraft manufacturer, the B.C. company's operators knew they were on the verge of something big.

British Columbia plans to join forces with Canada's two other westernmost provinces to offer a business accelerator program in China aimed at helping companies expand into and sell their products and services in the country, Premier Christy Clark announced.

As part of the BC Jobs and Trade mission, B.C. Premier Christy Clark today witnessed the signing of a letter of intent between Barkerville and the Guangdong Museum of Overseas Chinese that will form the foundation for a successful tour of the Barkerville photographic exhibit.