Atlantic Economic Development Ministers Affirm Commitment to Regional Collaboration and Federal Partnership

Press Release

November 13, 2025

Economic development ministers from Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Newfoundland and Labrador convened today, November 13, in Halifax to affirm their commitment to regional collaboration and to identify joint priorities to strengthen the region’s economic future.

The Minister of Economic Development, Innovation and Trade for Prince Edward Island joined this discussion virtually.

The meeting focused on advancing economic growth through co-ordinated action and strategic partnerships.

Nova Scotia hosted the inaugural meeting and Ministers committed to convening regularly, each participating province acting as host. The next meeting will take place in New Brunswick in the spring.

Ministers emphasized the importance of working collaboratively to advance their shared priorities, including:

• Market diversification: expanding access to national and international markets for Atlantic businesses, reducing reliance on traditional trading partners and promoting export growth through strategic trade initiatives
• Infrastructure investment: enhancing transportation, digital connectivity and energy infrastructure to support business growth, community development and transformative projects across Atlantic Canada
• Innovation and productivity: supporting regional innovation ecosystems and scaling up productivity across key sectors such as clean technology, ocean industries, natural resources development, defence and advanced manufacturing
• Support for rural and Indigenous communities: ensuring inclusive economic development that benefits all Atlantic Canadians.

Sean Fraser, federal Minister for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, joined the provincial ministers for a portion of the meeting to discuss emerging growth opportunities and challenges.

The Ministers underscored their commitment to working together as a region and with the federal government to advocate for equitable access to federal funding and programs. They emphasized that Atlantic Canadians deserve their fair share of national investments and that regional collaboration is key to achieving this goal.

Quotes:

“Atlantic Canada has a long history of resilience and innovation. By working together, we can amplify our strengths and ensure our region is positioned for long-term success.”
— Colton LeBlanc, Minister of Growth and Development, Nova Scotia

“New Brunswick is pleased to work alongside our Atlantic partners to advance joint priorities that benefit the entire region. Atlantic Canada is strongest when we work together. Today’s meeting reaffirmed our shared commitment to economic growth, supporting our businesses and communities, and ensuring Atlantic Canadians receive equitable access to federal programs and investments.”
— Luke Randall, Minister responsible for Opportunities NB, and Economic Development and Small Business, New Brunswick

“Prince Edward Island is proud to stand with our Atlantic neighbours to advocate for the investments and partnerships needed to grow our economy. Together, we are stronger.”
— Darlene Compton, Minister of Economic Development, Innovation and Trade, Prince Edward Island

“We’re proud to team up with our Atlantic neighbours to tackle shared challenges and find new opportunities. By working together, we can create more jobs and help our communities grow and thrive.”
— Lin Paddock, Minister of Jobs, Growth and Rural Development, Newfoundland and Labrado

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