January 15, 2008
Ottawa - Today in Guatemala, on behalf of the Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister of International Cooperation, the Honourable Peter Kent, Minister of State of Foreign Affairs (Americas), announced Canada’s contribution to a six-year project aimed at increasing rural economic development in Guatemala. The announcement demonstrates Canada’s continuing commitment to development in the Americas.
“The Government of Canada is playing an active role in helping countries in the Americas build a better future,” said Minister Kent. “This project will provide long-term benefits to Guatemala and provide communities with an opportunity to improve their livelihoods and overall sustainable development.”
"I am pleased that at a time of rising food costs, our support to local farmers will provide a stronger agricultural sector in this region of Guatemala," said Minister Oda. "This project demonstrates Canada's on-going commitment to the agricultural sector in developing countries. The project in turn not only meets the demand for food but also enhances the economic development of communities."
The Government of Canada, through the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA), will partner with the Center for International Studies and Cooperation (CECI) and the Société de coopération pour le développement international (SOCODEVI), to deliver the $10 million project.
The funding will help coffee and vegetables farmers; support regional economic planning; and diversify and increase tourism in Solola, a region where 8 out of 10 residents, the majority of them indigenous, live in poverty.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper in his first state visit to the region in July 2007 underscored the importance of Canada’s engagement in the Americas in the key areas of: freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law, as well as building economic prosperity and contributing to regional security.
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Information:
Michelle Coates
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of International Cooperation
Telephone: 819-953-6238
Media Relations Office
Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA)
Telephone: 819-953-6534
E-mail: media@acdi-cida.gc.ca
