February 1, 2001
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Jean Chrétien today announced that he will visit Washington D.C. on February 5, 2001. In Washington, the Prime Minister will participate in a first meeting with newly elected U.S. President George W. Bush. The two leaders will get acquainted and exchange views on a broad range of bilateral and international issues and priorities.

"Canada and the United States are each other’s closest allies and most important trading partners", said the Prime Minister. "I am pleased to meet with President Bush so soon after his inauguration. It is important, at this early juncture, to develop a solid relationship in order to further strengthen the unique partnership our two countries share."

In Washington, Prime Minister Chrétien will also meet with the Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), César Gaviria, to discuss hemispheric issues and the upcoming Summit of the Americas to be held in Quebec City, April 21-22. Mr. Chrétien will deliver an address to a Special Session of the Permanent Council of the OAS.

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