NEWS RELEASESMarch 6, 1998 No. 46 MARCHI ANNOUNCES NEW YOUTH INITIATIVE International Trade Minister Sergio Marchi today announced a new youth international internship project valued at $225 000 for the Centre for Research on Latin America and the Caribbean at York University in Toronto. The initiative will provide 15 young Canadians from across the country with training and experience in the hemisphere's main political forum, the Organization of American States (OAS), in Washington, D.C. "Canada views Latin America as a priority for further economic, political and social links," said Mr. Marchi. "Through this project we can offer young Canadians the opportunity to become familiar with issues of the Americas. This initiative is particularly important as Canada prepares to host for the first time the General Assembly of the OAS in the year 2000." The Centre for Research on Latin America and the Caribbean is an interdisciplinary research unit that seeks to build links between Canada and these regions. Minister Marchi made the announcement at the International Graduate Business Conference at York University. Prospective candidates may obtain more information regarding eligibility criteria by calling 1-800-559-2888 or by visiting the Department's Web site at www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca under "Canadian Youth." Funding for this initiative was provided for in the February 1998 federal budget and is therefore built into the existing fiscal framework. - 30 - 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 |