MEDIA ADVISORIES

February 27, 2004 No. A/16

KNUTSON TO VISIT CENTRAL AMERICA

Minister of State (New and Emerging Markets) Gar Knutson will lead the Central America Circuit, a trade mission of 41 representatives from 28 Canadian companies, to Guatemala, El Salvador, Costa Rica and Panama from March 1 to 6, 2004.

Central America Circuit 2004 is the largest commercial mission ever mounted to the region and seeks to enhance Canada-Central America commercial links.

As part of his mandate to raise Canada's profile in expanding and dynamic markets, Mr. Knutson will meet with government officials and Canadian and Central American business representatives.

During his visit to Panama, the Minister will inaugurate the 20-booth Canadian pavilion at EXPOCOMER, the largest regional trade show in Central America.

Note: Events are subject to change and all times are local.

Monday, March 1, 2004

Event: Luncheon address (open coverage)

Time: 12:00 p.m.

Location: Official Residence of the Canadian Ambassador

11 Avenida 20-57, Zona 14

La Cañada

Guatemala City, Guatemala

Event: Tour of El Correo Facilities

Time: 2:00 p.m.

Location: El Correo Facilities Main Sorting Plant

17 Avenida 19-71, Zona 11

Guatemala City, Guatemala

Tuesday, March 2, 2004

Event: Announcement of embassy opening

Time: 8:30 a.m.

Location: Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Calle Circunvalación, Lote No. 37, Casa No. 227

Contiguo a Telemovil

Col. San Benito

San Salvador, El Salvador

Event: Canada reception (open coverage)

Time: 6:30 p.m.

Location: Meso America

Radisson Hotel

89 Avenida NTE Y 11 Calle Poriente

Col. Escalon

San Salvador, El Salvador

Wednesday, March 3, 2004

Event: Luncheon address to the Costa Rica-Canada Chamber of Commerce (open coverage)

Time: 12:30 p.m.

Location: Salon Chirripo, 1st Floor

Tryp Corobici Hotel

Autopista General Canas

Sabana Norte

San José, Costa Rica

Thursday, March 4, 2004

Event: Luncheon address (open coverage)

Time: 12:00 p.m.

Location: Royal Palm Room

Miramar Hotel

Miramar Plaza, Balboa Avenue

Panama City, Panama

Event: Official opening of Canadian pavilion at EXPOCOMER

Time: 4:00 p.m.

Location: Atlapa Convention Centre

Via Israel, Calle 77

San Francisco

Panama City, Panama

For information on the Central America Circuit, visit http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/latinamerica/2004circuit/

For more information, please contact:

Jennifer Wesanko
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of State (New and Emerging Markets)
(613) 944-1679
jennifer.wesanko@dfait-maeci.gc.ca

Media Relations Office
Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
(613) 995-1874
http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca