April 3, 1998 No. 83

CHAN TO DISCUSS REGIONAL ECONOMIC ISSUES

IN THE PHILIPPINES

Secretary of State (Asia-Pacific) Raymond Chan will visit the Philippines from April 7 to 8 to discuss the impact of the current Asian economic crisis on the Philippines and the region.

"Canada and its Asian partners have a mutual interest in sustained regional growth through increased trade, investment and economic co-operation," said Mr. Chan. "Over the past few years, bilateral relations between Canada and the Philippines have grown increasingly strong. By working in partnership with countries affected by the economic crisis, such as the Philippines, we hope to encourage the economic and social recovery of the region."

Mr. Chan will meet with the Acting Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Leonides T. Caday, the Secretary of Socio-Economic Planning and Director General of the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA), Cielito F. Habito, and the President of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Mitsuo Sato. Several issues will be discussed including the social impact of the Asian economic crisis on the region and ways of integrating Canadian initiatives with ADB programs.

Mr. Chan's visit follows a trip to Pakistan from April 3 to 6, where he is accompanying Governor General Romeo LeBlanc and leading a Canadian business delegation. Mr. Chan also led a delegation to Indonesia from March 31 to April 1, where he met with ministers and government officials to discuss that country's current economic situation.

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For further information, media representatives may contact:

Hilary Humphrey

Office of the Secretary of State (Asia-Pacific)

(613) 995-1852

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