March 30, 1998 No. 75

MARCHI MEETS WITH CHINESE LEADERS IN BEIJING AND

ANNOUNCES CANADA-CHINA INTERPARLIAMENTARY GROUP

International Trade Minister Sergio Marchi today took part in a series of bilateral meetings with senior Chinese leaders and announced the establishment of the Canada-China Interparliamentary Group.

"I have been deeply impressed by the determination of Chinese leaders to embrace significant reforms in China's economy and society," said Minister Marchi. "I am convinced that these changes herald a better future not only for the Chinese people, but for Canada-China relations. I foresee a much broader participation in all aspects of this relationship by Canadians."

The Canada-China Interparliamentary group will provide a forum for dialogue between Canadian parliamentarians and members of the National People's Congress (NPC).

"This body will add a new dimension to our dialogue with the Chinese government on a range of social and economic issues," added Mr. Marchi. "By sharing information about our respective systems of government and key policy issues, we can pursue new avenues for co-operation together."

Mr. Marchi made the announcement in Beijing, following meetings with the Chairman of the NPC Standing Committee, Li Peng;

Li Lanqing, Executive Vice-Premier of the State Council; Shi Guangsheng, Minister of Foreign Trade and Economic Co-operation; and Dai Xianglong, Governor of the People's Bank of China. Canadian companies were represented at a number of these meetings.

The proposal to create the Canada-China Interparliamentary Group arose during discussions between Prime Minister Jean Chrétien and President Jiang Zemin at the time of the President's state visit to Canada in November 1997.

This body will enable parliamentarians in Canada and members of the NPC to maintain ongoing contact and engage in discussions on a range of subjects. This includes parliamentary rules, the legislative process, the roles of the executive and legislative branches, and the role of committees in studying legislation and receiving public representation. International trade arrangements and welfare and social development policies will also be discussed. Annual meetings are planned for each country on an rotating basis.

Senator Jack Austin and Reg Alcock, Member of Parliament, will serve as interim chairs for the Senate and the House of Commons groups respectively. They were in attendance, together with Bob Mills, Member of Parliament, and Benoît Sauvageau, Member of Parliament, when Minister Marchi made the announcement in Beijing.

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For further information, media representatives may contact:

Leslie Swartman

Office of the Minister for International Trade

(613) 992-7332

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