Statement by the Prime Minister


February 26, 1999
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Jean Chrétien today made the following statement on the occasion of entry-into-force of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on their Destruction -- commonly known as the Ottawa Treaty -- on March 1, 1999:

"This is a defining moment for the Ottawa process and for the world. It brings closer the day when these silent killers will be erased from the face of the earth; when innocent civilians will no longer have to live in fear of their terrible, indiscriminate force.

The entry-into-effect of the Convention means that its implementation -- destroying stockpiles, removing mines from the ground and providing sustained assistance to mine victims -- can proceed in earnest with the weight of international law behind it.

It is also a proud moment for Canada. Working with like-minded nations and non-governmental organizations, we helped forge a new and powerful coalition. One that demonstrated that international relations is not the exclusive preserve of the great powers. Foreign Affairs Minister Lloyd Axworthy, in particular displayed creative and daring leadership in achieving this remarkable diplomatic breakthrough -- beating the odds and overturning conventional wisdom.

With 134 nations already having signed the Convention, I encourage all remaining countries to sign and ratify it quickly so we may have a truly global commitment to bringing this human crisis to an end."

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