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<title>CANADA ANNOUNCES DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS WITH THE DEMOCRATIC PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF KOREA</title>
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<p><font face="Arial" size="+1"></font><font face="Arial" size="+1"><strong>February 6, 2001 <em>(8:00 a.m. EST)</em> No. 17</strong></font></p>
<p align="CENTER"><font face="Arial" size="+1"><strong>CANADA ANNOUNCES DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS WITH THE
DEMOCRATIC PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF KOREA</strong></font></p>
<p><font face="Arial"></font><font face="Arial">John Manley, Foreign Affairs Minister, today announced that Canada has established
diplomatic relations with the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). The
announcement follows the decision taken by Canada on July 26 to recognize the
DPRK as a state and member of the international community. At that time, both
nations agreed to begin technical discussions leading to the establishment of
diplomatic relations.</font></p>
<p><font face="Arial">"Establishing diplomatic relations will create formal channels through which Canada
and the DPRK can further enhance communications and co-operation and develop a
deeper understanding of each other," said Mr. Manley. "At this juncture, Canada
believes that closer relations with Pyongyang is the best way to contribute to security,
non-proliferation and humanitarian challenges in the region."</font></p>
<p><font face="Arial">The Minister added that ties between both nations would be based on the principles of
mutual respect for national sovereignty and non-interference in internal affairs, and
would be in accordance with the United Nations Charter and international laws and
practices.</font></p>
<p><font face="Arial">Since 1997, the Canadian government has donated approximately $30 million in
humanitarian aid to the DPRK through the United Nations World Food Program and
Canadian non-governmental organizations.</font></p>
<p align="CENTER"><font face="Arial">- 30 -</font></p>
<p><font face="Arial">For further information, media representatives may contact:</font></p>
<p><font face="Arial">Jennifer Sloan</font></p>
<p><font face="Arial">Director of Communications</font></p>
<p><font face="Arial">Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs</font></p>
<p><font face="Arial">(613) 995-1851</font></p>
<p><font face="Arial">Media Relations Office</font></p>
<p><font face="Arial">Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade</font></p>
<p><font face="Arial">(613) 995-1874</font></p>
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