April 17, 2000
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Jean Chrétien today announced a $500 000 contribution to the second phase of mine clearance activities in the Jordan Valley. The Prime Minister made the announcement in Amman Jordan, one of the stops on his current trip to the Middle East.

"Canada is proud to be able to assist in efforts to remove mines from the Jordan Valley," said the Prime Minister. "We are grateful for the tremendous leadership role that Jordan has taken on anti-personnel mines and we look forward to working together to encourage other states in the Middle East and elsewhere to accede to the Ottawa Convention."

Each year, pilgrims and tourists from all parts of the world visit the Jordan Valley to visit its historic and religious sites. Canada, Norway and Israel have been working together in support of Jordanian de-mining efforts since July 1998. The activity is considered a confidence-building measure that contributes to peace building in the region. The Canadian International De-mining Centre, of Sydney, Nova Scotia, is providing the Jordanian Royal Corps of Engineers with clearance equipment and protective gear to rid the area of anti-personnel mines. Today’s announcement brings Canada’s total contribution to this initiative to $800 000.

Universalization of the Ottawa Convention and integration of mine action to peace building measures is a priority for Canada in the Middle East. Jordan is a strong proponent and signatory of The Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on Their Destruction and Queen Noor has taken on a leading role as a good will ambassador for the cause.

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PMO Press Office: (613) 957-5555