Prime Minister Witnesses Signing of agreements with Jamaica


June 3, 1999
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Jean Chrétien and Jamaican Prime Minister Percival James Patterson today witnessed the signing of two Canada-Jamaica agreements. The signings took place during the Ottawa portion of Prime Minister Patterson's official visit to Canada.

"These agreements illustrate the strength of the relationship that is developing between Canada and Jamaica and lays a foundation for future growth," said Prime Minister Chrétien.

The following agreements were signed today by the Canadian High Commissioner to Jamaica, Gavin Stewart, and his Jamaican counterpart, High Commissioner Raymond Wolfe:

A Treaty on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters: This treaty enhances co-operation between policy and prosecutors in Canada and Jamaica in criminal matters. It also covers co-operation in the gathering of evidence and investigations in both countries and ensures that evidence gathered in either country can be used in both jurisdictions. The implementation of this treaty is part of Canada's program to expand international legal co-operation.

A Treaty regarding the Sharing of the Proceeds of the Disposition of Forfeited Assets and Equivalent Funds. This agreement provides for the seizing of assets of criminals, and the sharing of those assets arising from international criminal investigations.

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