Speech will focus on need for Canada need to establish itself as a world leader in sustainable production

NEW YORK, March 13, 2013 /CNW/ - CIBC (CM: TSX) (CM: NYSE) - The Honorable Jim Prentice, P.C., Q.C., Senior Executive Vice-President and Vice Chairman of CIBC, will deliver a keynote address on innovation in Canada's energy sector at a Financial Times conference in News on March 13.

In his remarks, Mr. Prentice will share his view that approving the Keystone XL pipeline is in the 'national interest' of the United States - bringing both economic and environmental benefits.

Mr. Prentice joined CIBC in January 2011 and has responsibility for expanding CIBC's relationships with corporate clients across Canada and abroad, and for providing leadership on strategic initiatives to enhance CIBC's position in the market. He joined the bank following a successful career as a lawyer, Member of Parliament and one of the most senior Ministers in the Canadian Government. He served variously as the Minister of Industry, the Minister of the Environment, the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and was the Minister responsible for major pipeline projects. He was also the Co-Chair of the Indian Claims Commission of Canada from 1993 until 2000.

Mr. Prentice will be available for media interviews after this event.

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SOURCE: CIBC