November 9, 2005
Prime Minister Paul Martin today announced that his Special Advisory Team will visit Sudan from November 11 to 20, 2005. The team, which consists of the Prime Minister's Personal Representative for Africa, Ambassador Robert Fowler, Canada's Special Envoy for Peace in Sudan, Senator Mobina Jaffer, and Senator Roméo Dallaire, was named earlier this year as part of an expanded contribution by Canada to support international efforts toward peace and stability in Sudan.
The purpose of the visit will be to determine ways in which Canada can assist in reaching a peace agreement for Darfur, to observe the African Union Mission in Sudan (AMIS) and assess Canada's contribution to the mission, and to consult with the Government of Sudan.
"Promoting long-term peace throughout Sudan remains a key priority for Canada," said Prime Minister Martin. "I have asked my team of special advisors to visit the region, to assess the situation and to help ensure the effectiveness of Canada's engagement. I have full confidence in this team, and in its work of coordinating and promoting Canada's efforts."
The visit will include meetings with representatives of the Government of Sudan, AMIS, the United Nations Mission in Sudan, UN agencies and non-governmental organizations.
On May 12, 2005, Prime Minister Martin announced up to $170 million for the Darfur peace process, for peacebuilding and for increased assistance for AMIS. This package is in addition to the $90 million in assistance that Canada pledged on April 11, 2005, to help consolidate peace following the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement. Canada is present as an international observer at the African Union-led Darfur peace talks, providing financial and diplomatic support.
For more information about Canada's contributions toward peace and stability in Sudan visit http://canadasudan.gc.ca.
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