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NEWS RELEASES

May 1, 1996 No. 85

CHAN TO VISIT CHINA AND HONG KONG AND LEAD

TRADE MISSION FOCUSSING ON

EMERGING REGIONAL MARKETS IN CHINA

The Honourable Raymond Chan, Secretary of State (Asia-Pacific), will visit China and Hong Kong between May 4 and 21 to discuss a wide range of political, trade, economic and sustainable development aspects of their relations with Canada. Accompanied by representatives of 39 Canadian companies, Mr. Chan will also promote Canadian involvement in projects in the Chinese cities of Beijing, Dalian, Jinan, Shanghai, Fuzhou and Shenzhen.

This is the first federal trade mission to include Dalian, Jinan, Fuzhou and Shenzhen, cities located within some of the fastest-growing regional markets in China. Characterized by growth rates that exceed the national average, growing consumer classes and immense infrastructure requirements, these markets present exciting opportunities for Canadian business.

"Thanks in part to the highly successful Team Canada mission in November 1994, Canadian businesses have made important gains in the China market. Exports to China jumped by nearly 50 per cent to a record $3.4 billion in 1995," said Mr. Chan.

"To sustain this momentum, we must target more specifically some of the fast-growing regional markets in China. This mission will do just that. It is an exciting opportunity to promote Canadian expertise and cultivate partnerships among the business and government leaders who are guiding development in these markets."

During his visit to China, May 4-18, Mr. Chan will meet with senior Chinese central and regional government officials, including the Foreign Minister, the Mayor of Dalian, the Governor of Shandong, the Vice-Mayor of Shanghai as well as representatives of provincial trade and economic planning commissions. He will also address a luncheon hosted by the Canada China Business Council's Beijing Chapter and the Canadian Business Forum being held in Shanghai.

While in Hong Kong, May 18-21, Mr. Chan will meet with key government officials, including Chief Secretary Anson Chan, to emphasize Canadian support for a smooth transition of power in 1997 and to exchange views on a number of issues related to the transition. He will also participate in a round table with members of Hong Kong's Legislative Council.

The growing number of high-level visits between Canada and China since the Team Canada mission demonstrates the increasing importance the two countries place on enhancing co-operation on all levels.

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A list of the Canadian companies accompanying Mr. Chan to China is attached.

For further information, media representatives may contact:

Media Relations Office

Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade

(613) 995-1874

VISIT OF THE HONOURABLE RAYMOND CHAN,

SECRETARY OF STATE (ASIA-PACIFIC) TO CHINA

MAY 4-18, 1996

BUSINESS DELEGATION