(No. 156 - May 7, 2010 - 12:30 p.m. ET) The Honourable Peter Kent, Minister of State of Foreign Affairs (Americas), today announced that he will attend the May 8, 2010, inauguration of Laura Chinchilla as Costa Rica’s new president.
“Canada and Costa Rica enjoy excellent relations,” said Minister of State Kent. “Costa Rica has been a solid partner in promoting our shared values of human rights and democracy. As Canada pursues its engagement in the Americas in support of democracy, security and prosperity, we look forward to continued close collaboration with Costa Rica.”
Canada and Costa Rica have cooperated on political and economic matters, including the Canada-Costa Rica Free Trade Agreement, with parallel agreements on the environment and labour cooperation.
Approximately 10,000 Canadians live in Costa Rica, and about 100,000 travel to the country every year.
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For further information, media representatives may contact:
Meredith McDonald
Senior Communications Adviser
Office of the Minister of State of Foreign Affairs (Americas)
613-944-7013
Foreign Affairs Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
613-995-1874
