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NEWS RELEASES

May 7, 1999 (10:25 a.m. EDT) No. 101

CHAN TO VISIT BANGLADESH

Secretary of State (Asia-Pacific) Raymond Chan today announced that he will lead a business delegation to Bangladesh on May 16 and 17, 1999.

"Bangladesh has made great strides in diversifying its economy over the last decade. While Bangladeshis continue to struggle with many developmental and environmental challenges, their spirit of entrepreneurship has fostered active trade between our two countries," said Mr. Chan. "I am greatly encouraged by this evolution. Canada has much to offer to Bangladesh in the way of goods and services, and I look forward to bringing together business interests from both countries to enhance our ties."

During the visit, Mr. Chan will be accompanied by a business delegation including representatives of the oil and gas, power, transportation, pulp and paper, and engineering sectors. While in Dhaka, the Secretary of State (Asia-Pacific) will meet with the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina Wajed, and senior members of her cabinet, including the Ministers of Finance, Foreign Affairs, Commerce and Industry. Mr. Chan will also tour an education project funded by the Canadian International Development Agency.

In 1998, two-way trade between Canada and Bangladesh amounted to $250 million. Canada's exports to Bangladesh were worth $110 million last year, an increase of almost 15 percent over the previous year. Imports from Bangladesh amounted to $140 million.

Secretary of State (Asia-Pacific) Chan will also make brief visits to Islamabad and New Delhi en route to Bangladesh. He will meet with senior government officials in both capitals.

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A list of the businesses represented in the delegation accompanying Mr. Chan is attached.

For further information, media representatives may contact:

Naseem Nuraney

Office of the Secretary of State (Asia-Pacific)

(613) 995-1852

Media Relations Office

Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade

(613) 995-1874

CANADIAN COMPANIES PARTICIPATING IN

THE BUSINESS DELEGATION TO BANGLADESH