Canada-Asia News Service

The National Energy Board (NEB) approved an application by BC LNG Export Co-operative LLC (BC LNG) for a licence to export liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Kitimat, British Columbia primarily to Asian markets. The export licence authorizes BC LNG to export 36 million tonnes of LNG, which is equivalent to approximately 47.9 billion m3 of natural gas, over a 20 year period. The maximum annual quantity allowed for export will be 1.8 million tonnes of LNG, which amounts to approximately 2.4 billion cu. metres of natural gas. The co-operative currently has 13 natural gas producers, marketers and LNG buyers, where members of the co-operative will submit bids to either provide natural gas to be liquefied or purchase LNG. A committee will review the bids and choose those that will yield the greatest margin to the co-operative.

Quebec Minister of Health and Social Services, Yves Bolduc, and Maharashtra State Health Minister, Suresh Shetty, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for Joint Cooperation in Health and Social Services in Telemedicine, Tele-trauma and Primary Care. This MOU represents an extension of a joint collaborative agreement signed in 2006. A joint venture was also announced between Quebec based Vigilant Telemedicines and the Health Management Research Institute of India (HMRI) to improve healthcare across the state, particularly in rural areas.