January 15, 2001
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Jean Chrétien announced today he will participate in a Canada-Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Summit in Jamaica, on January 18 and 19.

"I look forward to consulting with my Caribbean colleagues. These meetings allow us to explore ways to strengthen our political, trade and investment links," said the Prime Minister. "It will also provide me with the opportunity to consult regional leaders on the upcoming Summit of the Americas in Quebec City in April."

The Summit will take place in Montego Bay. It was originally scheduled for last September 29 but was postponed after the death of former Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau.

Prime Minister Chrétien and the CARICOM leaders will address regional issues, including the proposed Free Trade Area of the Americas. They will exchange views on other issues of concern to small states, such as multilateral initiatives on offshore financial centres, international crime and HIV/AIDS. Global issues, such as UN reform, will also be discussed.

The Prime Minister will be accompanied by Secretary of State (Latin America and Africa) David Kilgour.

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