NEWS RELEASES

January 17, 2000

MINISTER PETTIGREW PLEASED WITH SUCCESS OF

QUEBEC TRADE MISSION TO PANAMA

International Trade Minister Pierre Pettigrew today expressed satisfaction with the success of the Quebec trade mission to Panama. The Minister drew attention to the major role played by the Canadian Embassy in the Central American country in organizing and conducting the mission, made up of 22 Quebec companies. The mission involved numerous meetings between Quebec and Panamanian companies in mining, construction, telecommunications, education, hotel and restaurant services, energy and shipping.

"Our embassy in Panama put a lot of time into organizing this mission, which turned out to be a resounding success," said Mr. Pettigrew. "The success of the mission is also seen in the number of meetings we organized leading to the establishment of trade relations that might well result in the creation of new partnerships and opportunities."

The Canadian Embassy also organized meetings for Quebec Minister for the Economy and Finance Bernard Landry with the Panamanian Ministers for Economy and Finance, Trade and Industry and Public Works, as well as with the Secretary-General of Canal Affairs, the Governor of Panama and the Mayor of Panama City.

"It is important to recognize the work done by our foreign missions in promoting Canada`s international trade," added Mr. Pettigrew. "Our missions play an important part in expanding and maintaining business relations conducted by Canadian companies worldwide."

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For further information, media representatives may contact:

Sylvie Bussières

Office of the Minister for International Trade

(613) 992-7332

Media Relations Office

Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade

(613) 995-1874