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NEWS RELEASES

November 15, 2002 (4:40 p.m. EST) No. 148

PETTIGREW LEADS TRADE MISSION TO AFRICA

International Trade Minister Pierre Pettigrew will lead a trade mission to South Africa, Nigeria and Senegal, from November 16 to 26, 2002, to promote business relationships between Canadian companies and African partners.

"Africa remains an unknown market for most Canadian companies," said Minister Pettigrew. "During this mission, we want to open doors for Canadian businesses by developing strong partnerships with African countries. Given Africa's commitment to modernizing its private and public sectors, there are numerous opportunities for Canadian companies to explore."

Over 100 delegates from Canadian companies and organizations will participate in the mission. "The interest shown by the Canadian business community confirms Canada's commitment to forging closer ties with Africa," said Mr. Pettigrew. "We want to help create the conditions for sustained economic growth in Africa, and trade is a key ingredient."

During the trade mission, Minister Pettigrew will meet with his counterparts and key leaders who have played an important role in the New Partnership for Africa's Development. The mission will also focus on improving the overall Canada-Africa trade and investment relationship. He will also have the opportunity to talk about the initiatives Canada will put forward in order to support innovation and economic growth in Africa.

In 2001, Canada-Sub-Saharan Africa bilateral trade in merchandise totalled $1.69 billion; merchandise exports to that region grew to $690 million and imports totalled $1 billion. For the year 2000, sales of services added $629 million to Canadian exports. There is unrealized potential for increased Canadian trade and investment in the region.

For more information on this mission, please visit the Team Canada Web site at www.tcm-mec.gc.ca/africa

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A list of participants in the Canada Trade Mission to South Africa, Nigeria and Senegal is attached.

For further information, media representatives may contact:

Sébastien Théberge

Director of Communications

Office of the Minister for International Trade

(613) 992-7332

Media Relations Office

Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade

(613) 995-1874

http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca

Backgrounder

LIST OF PARTICIPANTS