February 16, 2009
No. 42
The Honourable Peter Kent, Minister of State of Foreign Affairs (Americas) today announced that he is travelling to Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, and Suriname from February 16 to 20, 2009.
“Canada enjoys warm relations with these three countries, and with the Caribbean region as a whole,” said Minister of State Kent. “We are happy to see the relationships maturing with increased commercial and political cooperation.
“Canada fully supports Trinidad and Tobago as it prepares to host the Summit of the Americas. This will be the first Summit of the Americas to be held in the Caribbean, and we are working with our partners throughout the hemisphere to ensure that this historic event is a success.”
Minister of State Kent will meet with leaders, ministers and senior officials in the three countries.
In addition, Mr. Kent will meet members of the business community and civil society organizations in Guyana, the Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community and tour a Canada Fund project there. While in Trinidad and Tobago, he will also meet with Secretary General José Miguel Insulza of the Organization of American States, who will be in the country to discuss preparations for the Summit of the Americas.
The Fifth Summit of the Americas will be held in April 2009. The theme is Securing Our Citizens’ Future by Promoting Human Prosperity, Energy Security and Environmental Sustainability. The Summit of the Americas brings together the leaders of the western hemisphere to discuss common concerns, seek solutions and develop a shared vision for the future development of the region.
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For further information, media representatives may contact:
Eleanor Johnston
Senior Special Assistant (Communications)
Office of the Minister of State of Foreign Affairs (Americas)
613-947-8981
Foreign Affairs Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
613-995-1874
www.international.gc.ca/index.aspx
