NEWS RELEASESJanuary 20, 1998 No. 17 CANADA RESUMES EMBASSY OPERATIONS IN THE DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO Foreign Affairs Minister Lloyd Axworthy announced today that Canada has resumed its Embassy operations in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and that Verona Edelstein has been appointed as Ambassador. "We resumed Embassy operations in Kinshasa in order to participate actively in international and regional efforts in pursuit of peace and security in the area," said Minister Axworthy. "Our presence will also enable us to engage the government in a sustained dialogue, thereby assisting in the achievement of good governance and the development of democracy and fundamental human rights and freedoms." Operations at the Canadian Embassy have been suspended since May 1993. Canadian consular services have been available, however, through a Canadian Office in the Embassy of the United States in Kinshasa. "Canada stands ready to support in a tangible way the Congolese government's endeavours in developing the country's social, human, and economic potential," said Minister Axworthy. Ambassador Edelstein, a career diplomat, has held the positions of Director, Eastern and Southern Africa Relations Division, as well as Director, United Nations Social and Humanitarian Affairs Division. She was also co-Chair of the Interdepartmental Working Group responsible for the creation of the International Centre for Human Rights and Democratic Development in Montréal. Most recently, from 1994 to 1997, Ambassador Edelstein was High Commissioner to Tanzania. - 30 - For further information, media representatives may contact: Debora Brown Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs (613) 995-1851 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 |