December 7, 2000
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Jean Chrétien today announced that the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, will pay a state visit to Canada, December 17 to 19, 2000, at the invitation of Governor General Adrienne Clarkson. President Putin will be accompanied by senior members of the Russian cabinet. This is the President’s first official visit to Canada and his third meeting with the Prime Minister.

"I am pleased to welcome President Putin to Canada," said the Prime Minister. "During this visit, I look forward to exchanging views on a wide range of global issues and identifying more areas where Russia and Canada can cooperate. We will also seek opportunities to develop deeper northern ties and increase investment and trade between our countries."

In Ottawa, President Putin will meet with the Governor General, the Prime Minister and the Speakers of the House of Commons and the Senate. He will meet Leader of the Opposition Stockwell Day, as well as representatives of the State Hermitage Foundation of Canada. In Toronto, on December 19, the President will meet Transport Minister Collenette and address the Empire Club of Canada and the Canadian Club of Toronto.

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