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<title>PARADIS VISIT TO LATIN AMERICA</title>
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<p><strong></strong><strong>August 2, 2002 No. 86</strong></p>
<p>Media representatives are advised that Denis Paradis, Secretary of State (Latin America and Africa) (Francophonie) will
visit Bolivia and Colombia on August 6 and 7, 2002, to attend presidential inaugurations in both countries. This will be the
Secretary of State's first official visit to Latin America.</p>
<p>On Bolivia's Independence Day, August 6, Mr. Paradis will attend the formal installation of Bolivia's next president, to be
named by Congress on August 3. The following day, he will be present for the inauguration of President-elect Alvaro Uribe
of Colombia.</p>
<p>The Government of Canada is pleased to participate in these historic events, which mark the affirmation of democracy in
these two countries.</p>
<p>Mr. Paradis will also visit Ecuador, Guatemala and El Salvador from August 10 to 15. </p>
<p>For further information, please contact:</p>
<p>Isabelle Mignault</p>
<p>Office of the Secretary of State (Latin America and Africa) (Francophonie)</p>
<p>(613) 995-1852</p>
<p>Media Relations Office</p>
<p>Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade</p>
<p>(613) 995-1874</p>
<p><font color="#0000ff"><u>http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca</u></font></p>
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