September 18, 2009
No. 260
The Honourable Peter Kent, Minister of State of Foreign Affairs (Americas), today congratulated the people of Chile as they celebrate their country’s Independence Day:
“Canada salutes the people of Chile as they mark their country’s independence. The close and vibrant relationship between our two countries, based on our significant bilateral cooperation and our shared commitment to the values of freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law, is important for Canada.
“Prime Minister Harper’s visit to Chile in July 2007 and President Bachelet’s visit to Canada in June 2008 are not only a testament to our strong working relationship, but also an expression of our nations’ mutual goodwill and friendship.
“Chile is an important partner for Canada as we address challenges in the hemisphere and pursue opportunities for shared prosperity. Our working relationship is being deepened with the implementation of the Canada-Chile Partnership Framework and five substantive memorandums of understanding in the areas of trade and investment, education and cultural exchange, and technical cooperation.
“Our academic ties are being strengthened as we welcome Chilean students and youth to study and travel in Canada under the Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program, the Canada-Chile Equal Opportunities Scholarships Program, and the Youth Mobility Program. It is in the spirit of friendship that Canada congratulates Chile and looks forward to continued cooperation between our two nations.”
For more information, please visit Canada-Chile Relations and Embassy of Canada to Chile.
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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
