NR 11.001 - January 7, 2011
Ottawa - The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, will visit the Middle East from January 9 to 13 to meet with key Israeli, Palestinian, and Jordanian leaders, as well as members of the Canadian Armed Forces deployed in the region.
"I look forward to returning to the Middle East to further develop Canada's important relations with Israel, Jordan and the Palestinian Authority," said Minister MacKay. "This visit will provide an opportunity to engage with regional leaders and highlight the Canadian contribution to peace and security in the Middle East through our participation in four UN and international missions in the region."
In Israel, meetings with his counterpart and other officials will build on the existing strong ties between Canada and Israel by underlining the benefits from a growing defence relationship.
In the West Bank, Minister MacKay will take stock of the efforts of the Canadian Armed Forces assisting the Palestinian Authority in implementing security reforms. Minister MacKay will convey Canada's appreciation for Jordan's contributions to peace and security to the region and globally.
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