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Ottawa, September 20, 2004
2004-054

Minister of Finance Launches Canadian Consultations on Africa

Minister of Finance Ralph Goodale today announced the launch of Canadian consultations on African development. The consultations scheduled to date will take place on September 21 in Calgary and on September 22 in Ottawa and Montréal.

"I look forward to learning about African development issues from Canadians with expertise in these areas," said Minister Goodale. "These consultations with non-governmental organizations and business people will complement the insight I gained during my trip to Africa last month."

The Minister is undertaking these consultations as part of his role as a member of the Commission for Africa. The mandate of the 17-member Commission, which was created by British Prime Minister Tony Blair, is to help African countries achieve their economic potential and meet their development goals. Minister Goodale, who accepted his appointment in March, will be contributing in particular to the Commission’s working group on the African economy.

Minister Goodale’s 10-day visit to Africa in August took him to Tanzania, South Africa, Nigeria and Mali. The Minister discussed economic issues with elected and government officials, academics, development experts, as well as representatives of the business community.

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