December 1, 2000
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Jean Chrétien announced today that he will lead the Team Canada trade mission to Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong from February 9-18, 2001. The Prime Minister will be joined by an official delegation made up of provincial premiers and territorial leaders and more than 300 business people and young entrepreneurs, heads of educational institutions and municipalities.

"I am pleased to return to office with a renewed majority mandate," said the Prime Minister. "And I am delighted that the Team Canada Mission to Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong has been rescheduled for the first weeks of the Chinese New Year. It is fitting that we visit this vital trading partner at this time of new beginnings to express our renewed commitment to our trade and investment relationships in China and Hong Kong."

This government’s strategy has been consistent: to encourage trade and investment through the development of a partnership between governments and the private sector. Team Canada has been an instigator for establishing business to business relationships and for concluding trade deals. As a tool for economic progress, Team Canada will continue to be the preferred vehicle to enhance the trade capabilities of Canadian enterprises from regions throughout this nation.

Those interested in further information on Team Canada 2001 should consult the Team Canada website at www.tcm-mec.gc.ca.

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