NEWS RELEASES
CANADIANS INVITED TO SHARE VIEWS ON SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT THROUGH DFAIT'S NEW WEB SITE
December 9, 1996 No. 239
CANADIANS INVITED TO SHARE VIEWS ON SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT THROUGH DFAIT'S NEW WEB SITE
Foreign Affairs Minister Lloyd Axworthy today announced that the Department of
Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT) has launched a new Internet Web
site designed to solicit feedback for the preparation of its new strategy for
sustainable development.
"Sustainable development is a cornerstone of Canadian foreign policy," said Mr.
Axworthy. "Through conflict prevention, trade negotiations and global
environmental leadership, Canada is working toward a world that is more secure,
more prosperous and more sustainable. In addition to seeking the views of
parliamentarians and the non-governmental sector, we want Canadians to share their
thoughts, ideas and concerns on this matter."
Sustainable development will be integrated into all aspects of DFAIT's operations
and decision-making practices, requiring a careful balancing of economic, social
and environmental goals in the development of policy.
In addition to establishing departmental priorities and drafting a discussion
paper, DFAIT has launched a process of public consultation. The Web site has been
set up to inform Canadians on the progress of the sustainable development strategy
and to invite their views. Canadians can direct their comments to the
Department's Co-ordinator for Environmental Assessment and Stewardship through the
site's comments section, entitled "Talk Back." Input from the public will be
reviewed and taken into account in the development of policy.
Information on sustainable development and Canadian foreign policy can be found on
the Sustainable Development home page, which includes sections on "Economic
Development," "Social Development" and "Environmental Protection" and has links to
over 30 related sites. Access is available through the following address:
http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/english/sustain/index.htm
- 30 -
For further information, media representatives may contact:
Catherine Lappe
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
(613) 995-1851
Media Relations Office
Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
(613) 995-1874
This document is also available on the Department's Internet site:
http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca
| 
