While the onus for future economic growth and the development of the information economy lies with you and your colleagues in the private sector, there are some key roles for government. Today, I would like to outline our broad agenda for helping the Canadian economy move forward and some specific initiatives of particular relevance to the software industry. Our first objective has been to improve Canada's fiscal situation and stabilize the country's economic climate. With the help and sacrifice of all Canadians we have gotten our economic fundamentals in the best shape they have been in 35 years. We are leading the world in deficit reduction.
Inflation rates are lower than they have been in decades.
We have interest rates down to their lowest level in 35 years. Our efforts are starting to pay off. Economists around the world agree that Canada is ready to lead the G-7 countries in economic growth and job creation. In addition to getting our fiscal house in order we have also worked with the private sector and the provinces to improve Canada's international trade performance. Increasingly, our prosperity is dependent on making the most of our international opportunities.