March 5, 2002
Ottawa, Ontario
Prime Minister Jean Chrétien announced today that the President of the State
of Israel, Moshe Katsav, will visit Canada from March 5 to 8, 2002, at the
invitation of Governor General Adrienne Clarkson.
"In these troubled times in the Middle East and around the world, it is
more important than ever to reaffirm our commitment to peace, security and
stability," said Prime Minister Chrétien. "President Katsav’s visit
will give us the opportunity to express our continued support and encouragement
for all efforts aimed at resolving the conflict in the Middle East. I also look
forward to this occasion to highlight the deep and strong friendship between our
two countries – a relationship that continues to evolve as we mark the fifth
anniversary of the Free Trade Agreement between Canada and Israel."
During his visit, President Katsav will meet with the Governor General, the
Prime Minister, the Deputy Prime Minister, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and
the Speaker of the House of Commons. An Israeli business delegation will travel
with the President and participate in a series of exchanges with Canadian firms
with a view to developing business partnerships and promoting investment between
the two countries.
Canada and Israel have a growing trade relationship, with two-way trade
exceeding $950 million in 2001. This represents an increase of more than 100 per
cent since the Canada-Israel Free Trade Agreement came into effect in 1997.
This will be the President’s first visit to Canada as Head of State.
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PMO Press Office (613) 957-5555
