Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Jobs, Economic Recovery and Innovation, has issued the following statement in response to Microsoft’s expansion and job growth in Vancouver:

“Microsoft Canada’s announcement that it is adding 500 new jobs in Vancouver in 2021 is welcome news for our province’s economic recovery. By the end of the year, 1,700 people will have good, family-supporting jobs with Microsoft in B.C.

“The expansion of Microsoft’s cloud services and its investment in building applications further establishes the Lower Mainland as a growing hub for technology and innovation.

“This is positive news for important sectors such as health care, education and agriculture that rely on digital infrastructure to modernize and attract talent. It provides B.C. companies a competitive advantage to grow and compete globally.

“Continued job growth in B.C. shows our plan to build an economic recovery that is innovative, sustainable and inclusive is working. This investment aligns with our government’s commitment to skill development and good-paying jobs for hard-working British Columbians.”