Prime Minister Harper to attend inauguration of Mexican President

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today announced that he will attend the December 1, 2006 inauguration of Felipe Calderón Hinojosa as Mexico’s 73rd President, in Mexico City.

"Canada and Mexico enjoy a close friendship, bilaterally and as North American partners," said the Prime Minister. "I look forward to working with the Mr. Calderón and his administration to build on the excellent relationship that exists between our two countries."

In keeping with a tradition of visits by Mexican presidents-elect to Canada, the Prime Minister welcomed Felipe Calderón to Ottawa in October. During the visit the Prime Minister and the President-elect discussed shared interests spanning the Canada-Mexico bilateral relationship as well as North American, hemispheric and global issues.

Felipe Calderón will serve for a single six-year term, succeeding President Vicente Fox.