September 21, 2001 (11:10 a.m. EDT) No. 132

MINISTER PETTIGREW POSTPONES

TRADE MISSION TO INDIA

International Trade Minister Pierre Pettigrew expressed his deepest regret today as he announced the postponement of the Canada Trade Mission to India. The mission to New Delhi and Mumbai, planned for October 7 to 12, will take place at the earliest mutually convenient date.

"I am very disappointed that we have to postpone our trade mission to India," said Minister Pettigrew. "However, given the evolving situation in neighbouring countries, the staff and resources at our missions in India need to be fully focussed on assisting the large number of Canadians currently residing and travelling in the region, and helping with any humanitarian efforts."

India is a potentially massive market for Canadian goods, services and technology. The country presents promising opportunities in several sectors, especially information technology and telecommunications, energy, transportation and infrastructure, agriculture and agri-food, education services and the environment.

"I can assure you that strengthening Canada's trade and investment relationship with India is a priority," added Minister Pettigrew. "I have been in contact with the Indian Minister of Commerce and Industry and with the Indian High Commissioner in Ottawa, and reiterated my interest in leading a trade mission to India as soon as possible."

Canada's decision to re-engage with India last March came at an opportune time. India's gross domestic product has grown more than 30 percent over the past five years, and Canadian exports to India have increased by 45 percent in the first two quarters of 2001.

"Canada's pursuit of the broadest possible political and economic relationship with India remains unchanged," said Dr. Rey Pagtakhan, Secretary of State (Asia-Pacific).

The Indian economy has changed a great deal since 1991, when India launched its program of economic reforms and trade and investment liberalization. In 1996, Prime Minister Chrétien led a very successful Team Canada Trade Mission to India; this gave a historic boost to political and commercial relations.

The mission was first announced in Canada last June by Minister Pettigrew on the occasion of his meeting with Indian Minister of Power Suresh Prabhu.

- 30 -

For further information, media representatives may contact:

Sébastien Théberge

Office of the Minister for International Trade

(613) 992-7332

Stephanie Ashton

Office of the Secretary of State (Asia-Pacific)

(613) 995-2742

Media Relations Office

Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade

(613) 995-1874