March 29, 1998 No. 73

MINISTERIAL DELEGATION TO INDONESIA, MALAYSIA AND SINGAPORE

Secretary of State (Asia-Pacific) Raymond Chan and Secretary of State (International Financial Institutions) Jim Peterson will lead a delegation to Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore from March 31 to April 3 to discuss the current economic situation in Southeast Asia.

"This initiative is particularly meaningful as it demonstrates Canada's commitment to assist its Asian partners in time of need," said Mr. Chan. "These countries are important for regional stability and global economic prosperity."

During their visit, Mr. Chan and Mr. Peterson will meet with government leaders and ministers to discuss economic reforms under way, and to address the socio-economic hardships that are affecting many people as a fallout from the economic crisis.

The delegation will be in Jakarta from March 31 to April 1, in Kuala Lumpur on April 2, and in Singapore on April 3. Members of the delegation include officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, the Department of Finance, the Canadian International Development Agency, and representatives from EDC (Export Development Corporation).

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For further information, media representatives may contact:

Hilary Humphrey

Office of the Secretary of State (Asia-Pacific)

(613) 995-1852

Doug Secord

Office of the Secretary of State (International Financial Institutions)

(613) 992-6670

Media Relations Office

Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade

(613) 995-1874

This document is also available on the Department's Internet site: http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca