March 14, 2003
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Jean Chrétien announced today that the President of Mozambique, Joaquim Chissano, will visit Canada from March 17-20, 2003, at the invitation of Governor General Adrienne Clarkson. This is the first official visit to Canada of a President of Mozambique.

"Canada looks forward to this opportunity to further our political and commercial relations with Mozambique and discuss progress on the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) and the G8 Africa Action Plan," said the Prime Minister. "Mozambique has made impressive advances toward national reconciliation, stability and democratic development and is playing a valuable leadership role in promoting these principles within the Southern African Development Community, the African Union and the Commonwealth."

In Ottawa, the President will meet with the Governor General and Canada’s Ministers of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, International Trade and Industry. The President and Prime Minister Chrétien will deliver remarks on NEPAD and the G8 Africa Action Plan on Parliament Hill. President Chissano will also participate in a business roundtable hosted by the Canadian Council on Africa.

NEPAD is an African-led, comprehensive program of action to further development on the continent. It encourages global partnerships with African countries that demonstrate a solid commitment to good governance, economic and social development and poverty reduction.

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PMO Press Office: (613) 957-5555