GATINEAU, December 14, 2007 - The Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages, today met with Jean-Pierre Raffarin, former Prime Minister of France and Chair of the French organizing committee for the 400th anniversary of Québec City in 2008 and Louis Duvernois, Senator representing French citizens living abroad. The aim of this meeting was to further Canada-France collaboration on the eve of the 400th anniversary of Québec City and to highlight the importance of promoting the French language and culture throughout the celebrations.
"The Government of Canada acknowledges France's commitment to this historical event, which is of international importance. On behalf of all Canadians, I would like to take this opportunity to thank France for its wonderful contributions to the celebrations for the 400th anniversary of Québec City in 2008, both in Canada and in France," said Minister Verner.
Mr. Raffarin reiterated France's commitment to the celebrations for the 400th anniversary of Québec City in 2008 and mentioned the various projects in which France is involved. Of note are three gatherings to promote economic exchanges between Canada and France, including Futurallia in May 2008. The Nouvelles scènes musicales françaises will take place at Espace 400e on July 14, 2008. Literature from France and elsewhere in the French-speaking world will be featured at the Salon international du Livre de Québec, which will take place from April 16 to 20, 2008.
Québec City was the first permanent French colony in the Americas and sole capital of New France. 2008 marks a historic date for France, all of Canada, and North America. The 400th anniversary of the founding of Québec City also reminds us that French is the founding language of Canada.
Information:
Dominic Gosselin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage,
Status of Women and
Official Languages
819 997-7788
Donald Boulanger
A/Chief, Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819 994-9101
