Amazon shortlists Toronto Region as one of 20 cities for Amazon HQ2

In a statement he said: "Today, Amazon announced that the Toronto Region is one of 20 cities on the shortlist for Amazon HQ2."

"The Toronto Region has emerged as a global centre of innovation and technology because of our talented, diverse and inclusive workforce. We have incredible home grown success stories and Amazon would further accelerate our success by investing more than $5 billion in construction and creating as many as 50,000 high-paying jobs.

"We are excited to have this opportunity and to be able to tell Toronto's unique story," he said.

"There is no other city region in North America that can boast the same talent, the same quality of life, the same vibrancy and economic strength.

"Toronto is a place where people want to live and I am dedicated to making sure that our quality of life keeps getting better. We are investing millions in transit expansion and state of good repair, affordable housing, parks and active transportation. We are working hard to elevate our reputation as a liveable, affordable city where everyone can succeed," he said.

"Last year, I said I would put the Toronto Region up against any city in North America as the place for ambitious, forward-looking companies looking for a home.

"I'm glad that Amazon agrees that Toronto is worth considering and I look forward to working with Toronto Global and my fellow GTA mayors and regional chairs as we continue to go through the bidding process over the coming months.

"I will continue to do whatever I can to bring good secure jobs to Toronto. They are crucial to our ongoing success."

(Reporting by Asha Bajaj)