Premier presses for $800million World Trade Centre in Brisbane

NEW YORK: Premier Peter Beattie has thrown the Queensland government’s support behind a private sector proposal to build an $800 million World Trade Centre in Queensland.

Mr Beattie today joined the project promoter, Olympian Mark Stockwell, for high level talks aimed at securing World Trade Association (WTCA) approval for the venture.

The Premier, who is leading a trade mission to the United States, joined Mr Stockwell of Stockwell Building and Development (Stockwell) for a meeting with President of the WTCA Mr Guy Tozzoli and Executive Vice-President Mr Robert DiChiara.

“In October 2006, Stockwell signed an agreement with Commerce Queensland to take over the rights to establish a World Trade Centre in Brisbane,” Mr Beattie said.

“For the formal transfer between Commerce Queensland and Stockwell to take place, approval must be granted from the WTCA Board of Directors.

“I’m delighted to lend my support for the Stockwell initiative to obtain WTCA approval and proceed with this groundbreaking project.”

Mr Beattie said that Commerce Queensland had held the rights to establish a World Trade Centre for several years before signing over to Stockwell.

“Now that Stockwell has come on board, the project is rapidly gaining momentum,” Mr Beattie said.

“Negotiations are already underway between Stockwell and the Brisbane Airport Corporation about building at the international terminal.

“This is an exciting venture that would generate more business for Queensland, lift our profile internationally and create more jobs for Queenslanders,” Mr Beattie said.

“It is an excellent concept and has the government’s strong support.”

Media contact: Premier’s office 3224 4500