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<title>EDC SIGNS FINANCING PROTOCOL WITH UKRAINE</title>
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<p><font face="Univers" size="+2"></font><font face="Univers" size="+2">April 7, 1998 No. 88</font></p>
<p align="CENTER"><font face="Univers" size="+2">EDC SIGNS FINANCING PROTOCOL WITH UKRAINE</font></p>
<p><font face="Courier">International Trade Minister Sergio Marchi today welcomed the signing of a
protocol between EDC (Export Development Corporation) and the National Agency of
Ukraine for Development and European Integration. The protocol, which was signed
by Roman Shpek, head of the Agency, and A.Ian Gillespie, President and CEO of
EDC, in the presence of Minister Marchi, will provide a mechanism to facilitate
EDC's financing activities in Ukraine. </font></p>
<p><font face="Courier">"Today's signing marks an important day in Canada-Ukraine business relations,"
said Mr. Marchi. "Not only will this financing unlock some of the systemic
barriers to Canadian businesses, but it will help Ukraine pursue a concerted
economic and market reform."</font></p>
<p><font face="Courier">"This protocol will supplement EDC's existing $US20 million line of credit with
the State Export-Import Bank of Ukraine," said </font></p>
<p><font face="Courier">Mr. Gillespie. "It also further supports Canadian exporters to do business in
this market."</font></p>
<p><font face="Courier">Canada's exports to Ukraine in 1997 were $25.9 million. Export financing from EDC
is expected to contribute to the growth of trade in the future. </font></p>
<p><font face="Courier">- 30 -</font></p>
<p><font face="Courier">For further information, media representatives may contact:</font></p>
<p><font face="Courier">Leslie Swartman</font></p>
<p><font face="Courier">Office of the Minister for International Trade</font></p>
<p><font face="Courier">(613) 992-7332</font></p>
<p><font face="Courier">Media Relations Office</font></p>
<p><font face="Courier">Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade</font></p>
<p><font face="Courier">(613) 995-1874</font></p>
<p><font face="Courier">This document is also available on the Department's Internet site:
http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca</font></p>
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