Prime Minister Launches APEC '97 Season

Prime Minister Jean Chrétien today launched the "APEC '97 Season" in Vancouver, unveiling the official graphic design and Internet website for the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting (AELM), to be held November 19 - 25 in Vancouver.

"The launching of the APEC '97 Season, and the Leaders' Meeting in particular, marks the high point in Canada's Year of Asia Pacific. In the coming weeks, Vancouver - as Canada's Pacific gateway - will be in the international spotlight. And we can be proud of what the world will see," said Prime Minister Chrétien. " It gives us an unparalleled opportunity to showcase our talent, products and services to our Pacific Rim partners. "

The APEC '97 graphic design, unveiled in the banners that will be mounted around the city in the weeks preceding the AELM, is the work of award-winning Vancouver designer, Ken Koo. The APEC '97 website provides access to everything from facts on member economies to "virtual" tours of event sites.

Canada is 1997 Chair of Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), a forum for 18 member economies from around the Pacific Rim to work towards trade liberalization and economic cooperation. Meeting of Ministers and Senior Officials have been held across Canada during 1997, to enable Canadians to participate in APEC activities and to prepare for the Leaders' Meeting in Vancouver.

PMO Press Office: (613) 957-5555