In his presentation for industry leaders, senior government officials, standards development organizations (SDOs), and consumer groups, Mr. Bhatia explained ANSI's role in the U.S. standardization system and its efforts to strengthen the U.S. position in the global economy. The SCC report, A Perspective on U.S. Standardization, also summarizes critical opportunities for standardization development. ANSI is dedicated to encouraging industry experts in emerging sectors and countries to participate in the standards development system, a goal which will ultimately help drive global competitiveness. The Institute is also prioritizing regional engagement - in the Americas, where Mr. Bhatia serves as president of COPANT, the Pan American Standards Commission, as well as in Europe and the Asia Pacific region.
ANSI is also working with nations that are new to the international standardization through the Standards Alliance, an initiative launched in 2013 in partnership with the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). Mr. Bhatia also described the Standards Boost Business (SBB) initiative, a partnership coordinated by ANSI that includes over 30 organizations from the standardization community. SBB is focused upon cultivating a greater understanding of standards and conformance by industry leaders on an international scale.
"Canada-U.S. cooperation on standardization issues has resulted in positive benefits for industry, consumers, and governments on both sides of the border," said Mr. Walter. "Our strong relationship is proof that standardization can contribute to economic growth and social well-being, not just nationally, but regionally and globally."
"I do strongly believe in Canada and the U.S. working together and achieving not only bilateral progress, but regional progress and international progress," said Mr. Bhatia.
The report is available for download on the SCC website.