(No. 31 - January 19, 2010 - 11:35 a.m. ET) The Honourable Peter Kent, Minister of State of Foreign Affairs (Americas), will visit Venezuela and Bolivia from January 19 to 24, 2010, as part of Canada’s foreign policy priority of deepening engagement in the Americas.
“The visit to these two countries will allow Canada to advance the key objectives of its engagement in the Americas: democratic governance, prosperity and security,” said Minister of State Kent. “Canada is committed to working with our partners to build strong, effective and accountable democracies that respond to the needs and interests of citizens. We are ready to provide support and share experiences with respect to democratic governance, security and economic growth.”
In Venezuela, Minister of State Kent will meet with representatives of civil society, members of Parliament and business leaders.
In Bolivia, the Minister of State will attend the official inauguration ceremony for President Evo Morales, who was re-elected to a second term in December. In addition, he is expected to meet with members of the Bolivian government and representatives of international organizations.
For more information on Canada’s role in Bolivia and Venezuela, please consult Canada-Venezuela Relations and Canada-Bolivia Relations.
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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
