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Prime Ministerial visit to Russia, Ukraine and Poland to take place of Team Canada
October 8, 1998
Ottawa, Ontario
Prime Minister Jean Chrétien today announced that the Team Canada trade mission to Russia, Ukraine and Poland, scheduled for January, has been replaced by a Prime Ministerial visit to the three countries. The change has been made because of the evolving global economic situation, particularly its impact on Russia.
"Recent weeks have made very clear that what Russia needs now is not a large-scale trade mission, it is encouragement and assistance in its difficult economic transition, and the solidarity of other nations in continuing with essential reforms during these times of global economic uncertainty," said the Prime Minister.
The Prime Minister's visit will focus on ongoing work needed in such areas of the Russian economy as financial services regulation, taxes and tax collection, and accession to international trading regimes such as the World Trade Organization. Parallel business sessions in the three countries will ensure that ongoing Canadian commercial interests are addressed.
The Prime Minister also said he looked forward to making his first official visits to Poland and Ukraine. "We want to continue to encourage Ukraine in its democratic and economic transition, and to highlight the success of Poland in re-establishing democracy and a market economy," he said.
The Prime Minister's decision was made following consultations with the provincial governments. The Prime Minister intends to lead a Team Canada mission later in 1999. Potential destinations are currently being assessed.
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PMO Press Office: (613) 957-5555
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