Colorado state Sen. Ray Scott is bringing the world to Grand Junction, starting with Canada, on Nov. 19.

Scott will play host to Stephane Lessard, the consul general of Canada. They’ll discuss energy policies, export opportunities and how Colorado can be a partner in international energy and economic development, according to the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce.

Scott said a day of meetings with local leaders will culminate in a reception and dinner at Colorado Mesa University.

Tickets – $37 for individuals and $350 per table – are available by clicking here.

“With the ever-changing economic conditions in Colorado’s rural regions, it just makes sense to look across state and international borders for partners that may help break down barriers for economic growth in both manufacturing and energy export,” Scott said.

After a tour of local manufacturers and businesses, Lessard will host a business roundtable with local business leaders to discuss any opportunity for trade between Mesa County and Canada.

“Energy producers will be discussing any export opportunities between our countries,” Scott said.

Scott will moderate the panel discussion that includes:

• Brain Cain of Extraction Oil & Gas Inc. to overview differences between basins.
• Stan Dempsey, president of the Colorado Mining Association, to discussing the mining and the Canadian interest in Colorado.
• Wyatt Boutwell, representing the Western Energy Alliance, to discuss memorandums of understanding with Western counties and Indian nations with international agreements in place.
• An economist to be determined to discuss possible future trade for Mesa County businesses.

“With Western Colorado’s vast natural resources, pipeline network and rail access across the country, opportunities need to be explored to maximize our ability to develop opportunities without state politics driving the conversation,” Scott said. “Mesa County is fiercely independent and have waited decades for a recovery beyond state government control. This conference is a beginning to many more efforts.”