Government of Canada, Privy Council Office Canada
Government of Canada, Privy Council Office
Français Home Contact Us Help Search canada.gc.ca
Site map

PRIME MINISTER WELCOMES MIDDLE EAST SUMMIT

Ottawa, Ontario
October 14, 2000

Prime Minister Chrétien today welcomed the news that a Middle East Summit hosted by Egypt and facilitated by the United States will take place in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt:

"Canada welcomes this encouraging news. From the beginning of this crisis, we have shared the strong desire of the international community for a cessation of the violence and a resumption of negotiations towards a just and lasting peace in the Middle East. The meeting in Sharm El-Sheikh is clearly a concrete step in that direction.

Yesterday, I spoke with Chairman Yasser Arafat, Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak and Crown Prince Abdullah of Saudi Arabia. Today, I spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak. Their shared desire to help bring about an end to the bloodshed is encouraging. And I expressed a special thanks on Canada’s behalf to President Mubarak for his outstanding efforts in brokering this Summit.

President Bill Clinton and UN Secretary General Kofi Annan are also to be congratulated for their perseverance in seeking reconciliation during this very difficult time.

While we are gladdened by this news, we also know that much hard work lies ahead for the parties. The situation is still very uncertain. The hopes and prayers of all Canadians are with the Summit participants as they attempt to resolve the conflict."

- 30 -

PMO Press Office: (613) 957-5555


	Return to top of page
Last Modified: 2006-07-28 Top of Page Important Notices