CHINESE PREMIER TO VISIT CANADA

December 9, 2003
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Jean Chrétien announced today that the Premier of China, Wen Jiabao, will visit Ottawa from December 10 to 12, 2003.  Premier Wen will be accompanied by Li Zhaoxing, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Ma Kai, the Minister of The National Development and Reform Commission.

"The recent increase in high level meetings between Canada and China is indicative of the keen interest that both countries have in intensifying trade and co-operation in a broad range of sectors," said the Prime Minister.  "This unprecedented co-operation will help ensure the health, prosperity, and well-being of our citizens for years to come."

Discussions between the two leaders will focus on further strengthening bilateral political and economic relations, global security issues and human rights and good governance.

In Ottawa, the Premier will also meet with Governor General Adrienne Clarkson, the Speaker of the Senate, Dan Hays, the Speaker of the House of Commons, Peter Milliken, and Liberal Party Leader, the Honourable Paul Martin.  In addition, he will participate in a luncheon hosted by the Canada-China Business Council.

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