Dear 2017 Delegates,</p> On behalf of Tourism Toronto, let me wish you a very warm welcome to Canada’s Downtown. Six years ago, we had the pleasure of hosting Sibos and are thrilled to welcome you back this year. It’s remarkable how much our city’s changed since you were with us in 2011.</p> Vibrant, eclectic and exciting, there’s no better time to visit Toronto. Recently named one of the ‘top places to go in 2017’ by Bloomberg, Toronto has the biggest, best and brightest in music, sports, shopping and art—all garnering global attention.</p> Toronto is your gateway to Canada. In fact, our country turned 150 this year and we’re celebrating from coast-to-coast. It’s a time of celebration and pride in who we are as a country and what we have to offer globally. Here in Canada’s largest city and major centre for finance, entertainment, innovation and media, you’ll find inspiration. </p> Over the last 10 years, the World Economic Forum has ranked Canada’s banking system, the second-largest in North America and headquartered in the Toronto Region, as one of the safest in the world. The region is home to 50% of the country’s 60,000 FinTech employees and offers one of the most highly educated workforces in the developed world. </p> As the 4th largest city in North America, Toronto is a global hub of cultural diversity, stimulating energy, and big ideas. It also happens to be the 8th most innovative city in the world, with 140 languages and dialects from 230 nationalities. Blending the best of modern Canadian diversity and inclusiveness with big-ticket events, top attractions, restaurants, music, architecture, and festivals, Toronto is one of the world’s most unique and exciting melting pots.</p> During your time with us, I hope you find time to discover all the great things that give Toronto its edge — like the CN Tower's thrilling EdgeWalk and other exciting attractions like Ripley's Aquarium of Canada, stylish new shopping at Saks Fifth Avenue and Nordstrom's and more than 8,000 restaurants across the city. During your visit you'll have lots of opportunities to network and explore this diverse international city.</p> Your stay will be that much more memorable thanks to our signature Toronto brand hospitality, and of course, our friendly Torontonians! Enjoy Canada’s Downtown to the fullest, we’re thrilled to have you.</p> Warmest regards,</p> Johanne R. Bélanger, CPA, CA.</strong></p> President and CEO</strong></p> Tourism Toronto</strong></p> </p> </p>