NEWS RELEASES

June 19, 2001 (3:00 p.m. EDT) No. 84

PAGTAKHAN TO VISIT SINGAPORE AND JAPAN

Dr. Rey Pagtakhan, Secretary of State (Asia-Pacific), today announced that he would be visiting Singapore and Japan from June 19 to 26.

"This visit strikes a unique balance in that it allows me to promote Canada's world class telecommunications and information technology at CommunicAsia in Singapore and then project Canadian values and culture at the Social Policy Symposium in Japan," said Dr. Pagtakhan. "Trade and social infrastructure will both be critical to the future prosperity and well-being of citizens in the Asia-Pacific region."

In Singapore, Dr. Pagtakhan will participate in CommunicAsia, one of the largest information and technology shows in the Asia-Pacific region. He will also meet with Peter Chen, the Minister of State for Trade and Industry, Dr. Ow Chin Hock, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, and members of the local business community.

In Japan, Dr. Pagtakhan will participate in a Social Policy Research Symposium in Osaka, which will focus on such issues as health, aging and work and family. The event is part of Think Canada 2001, the largest Canadian festival ever to be held in Japan. Featuring over 200 events throughout the country from March to July 2001, the festival highlights Canadian arts and culture, business, science and technology, politics and society, education and lifestyles. Dr. Pagtakhan will also meet with officials in Kansai and Hiroshima.

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For further information, media representatives may contact:

Stephanie Ashton

Office of the Secretary of State (Asia-Pacific)

(613) 995-2742

Media Relations Office

Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade

(613) 995-1874