News Release
1997-41
June 26, 1997
World Health Organization meets to develop an international framework convention on tobacco control
HALIFAX - Health Canada is hosting today in Halifax the first World Health Organization meeting to prepare an international framework convention on tobacco control. The meeting follows a resolution of the World Health Assembly calling on all member states to continue their work in implementing comprehensive tobacco control strategies. The meeting will be attended by experts from Canada, France, Finland, Thailand and the United States.
Canada's comprehensive tobacco reduction strategy has been internationally recognized. Canada's Tobacco Act received Royal Assent on 25 April 1997.
The meeting will provide an opportunity for Health Canada to work cooperatively towards strengthening international efforts to combat tobacco use. Experts from participating countries will share information on national tobacco control policies and programmes. In addition, they will review options for the future content and structure of an international framework convention dealing with tobacco control. Following the Halifax meeting, a series of consultations with public health and international law experts will be held before a draft convention on tobacco control is presented to the World Health Assembly in the year 2000.
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Media Inquiries:
Sylvie Patry
Health Canada
(613) 957-2988
Public Inquiries:
(613) 957-2991
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