Quebec politicians say Montreal is ‘logical’ choice to headquarter new defence bank

MONTREAL — A group of Quebec politicians are pitching Montreal as the “logical” choice to headquarter a new multinational defence bank, while downplaying whether Quebec referendum talk could hurt the city’s bid.

Quebec Economy Minister Bernard Drainville told reporters today that Montreal is the natural choice to host the new bank because of its strong financial and defence industries and because it hosts dozens of international organizations.

Montreal Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada touted the city’s skilled workforce, its universities and the fact that many citizens speak multiple languages.

The federal government announced on April 29 that Canada has been selected to host a multinational bank that would provide financing for defence projects by NATO members and allies.