June 3, 2002
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Jean Chrétien announced today that the President of Slovakia, Rudolf Schuster, will visit Canada from June 4 to 9, 2002 at the invitation of Governor General Adrienne Clarkson. The President will be accompanied by several Slovak ministers as well as a business delegation.

"This first visit by a Slovak Republic President to Canada will provide an excellent opportunity to further enhance political, commercial and cultural relations between our two countries," said the Prime Minister Chrétien. "We are impressed with the economic reforms being undertaken by the Slovak Government which are creating an investment climate that is attracting a growing number of Canadian and other international businesses."

In Ottawa, the President will meet with the Prime Minister, Governor General Adrienne Clarkson, Foreign Affairs Minister Bill Graham and Heritage Minister Sheila Copps. He will participate in an international conference at the University of Ottawa, entitled "The Slovak Republic – a Decade of Independence", that will bring together academics, businesspeople and members of government to discuss the nation’s achievements and future prospects.

Mr. Schuster and the Slovak business delegation will meet with Canadian business representatives with a view to developing new partnerships and promoting investment between the two countries. Finally, the President will also meet with Canadian Slovak communities in both Ottawa and Toronto.

- 30 -

PMO Press Office (613) 957-5555