Huawei Technologies Co.,Ltd, a Chinese telecom equipment maker, Tuesday celebrated the official opening of its Canadian Headquarters in Markham, Ontario.

The new 46,000-square-foot facility includes sales and marketing capabilities as well as a test lab.

"The establishment of our headquarters in Markham underscores our long-term investment in the Canadian market, and on a broader scale signifies Huawei's continued growth in North America," Charles Ding, president of Huawei North America, said.

To date, Huawei has created more than 250 jobs in Canada, approximately 70 percent of which are based in Markham. Over the next two years, Huawei is expected to add 280 new jobs in Canada, many of which will continue to be located in the Markham area.

Ontario's Minister of Economic Development and Trade Sandra Pupatello hailed the new launch. "Our government is excited to partner with Huawei on their most recent expansion into Ontario," she said.

"The fact that this company chose to set up their Canadian headquarters in Markham and their R&D Center in Ottawa speaks to the confidence Huawei has in Ontario's skilled workforce and competitive business environment," the minister said.

(Xinhua News Agency January 19, 2011)