September 25, 2000
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Chrétien today announced that he will participate in a Canada-Central American Heads of Government meeting on September 28 in Guatemala, as well as a Canada-Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Heads of Government Meeting in Jamaica, on September 29.

"These meetings provide Canada with the opportunity to exchange views on hemispheric issues with regional leaders and, in particular, to consult them on the upcoming Summit of the Americas taking place in Quebec City next year," said the Prime Minister. "As well, we will further explore ways that Canada can strengthen trade and investment links with Central American and Caribbean partners."

On September 27 the Prime Minister will hold a bilateral meeting with President Alfonso Portillo of Guatemala. On September 28, he and his counterparts will discuss negotiations for a Free Trade Area of the Americas, democratic development and good governance, and debt-related issues.

In Montego Bay Jamaica, Prime Minister Chrétien and CARICOM leaders will address regional issues including the Free Trade Area of the Americas. They will exchange views on other issues of concern to small states such as multilateral initiatives on offshore financial centres, international crime and HIV/AIDS.

The Prime Minister will also discuss global issues, such as UN reform, with his counterparts in Central America and the Caribbean.

The Prime Minister will be accompanied by International Trade Minister Pierre Pettigrew and Secretary of State for Latin America and Africa, David Kilgour.

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PMO Press Office: (613) 957-5555