After addressing the Vancouver Board of Trade the day after unveiling the latest budget, Canada's Finance Minister is headed to Asia.
 
Jim Flaherty says the reason for trip is obvious.

"Because the emerging economies are where the growth is in the world economy. European economies for the most part are in a recession. The american economy is struggling. Our economy is growing, modestly but the emerging economies continue to grow significantly. The other reason is that Hong Kong is a financial hub for the world."

Flaherty says the week long junket is important in terms of building on Canada's economic reputation.
 
He says besides time in Hong Kong he will also be visiting the emerging economy of Thailand.