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<p><font size="+1"></font><font size="+1"><strong>April 14, 2004 <em>(4:05 p.m. EDT)</em> No. 59</strong></font></p>
<p align="CENTER"><font size="+1"><strong>GRAHAM PLEASED WITH CREATION OF<br>
RIGHTS & DEMOCRACY NETWORK</strong></font></p>
<p>Minister of Foreign Affairs Bill Graham reiterated his support for the creation of the
Rights & Democracy Network, a Canada-wide forum for students interested in taking
concrete action in the area of human rights.</p>
<p>"We are pleased with the creation of the Rights & Democracy Network," said
Minister Graham at the opening ceremony in Quebec City this afternoon. "This Network
will enable students to come together to hold discussions with the Canadian and
international community on issues of great concern to the public, in particular human
rights, democratic development and globalization."</p>
<p>The purpose of the Network is to promote the United Nations International Bill of
Human Rights and democratic practices in Canada and around the world. The Network
is composed of delegations of students from Canadian universities and colleges,
individuals and institutions committed to promoting human rights and democratic
development.</p>
<p>"This student network provides a wonderful opportunity to recognize the contribution of
young people to human rights issues. I therefore reaffirm the Canadian government's
interest in this initiative and encourage Rights & Democracy to promote the growth of
delegations in Canada," the Minister added.</p>
<p align="CENTER">- 30 -</p>
<p>For further information, media representatives may contact:</p>
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<p>Isabelle Savard<br>
Director of Communications<br>
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs<br>
(613) 995-1851</p>
<p>Media Relations Office<br>
Foreign Affairs Canada and
International Trade Canada<br>
(613) 995-1874<br>
<a href="https://bac-lac.wayback.archive-it.org/web/20071207010816/http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/">http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca</a></p>
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