April 10, 2013 - The Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Minister for La Francophonie, issued the following statement on his participation in the Conférence internationale des responsables des universités et instituts scientifiques d’expression française (CIRUISEF) [international conference of officials of French-language universities and scientific institutes] on April 9, 2013:
“Canada recognizes the vital role that education plays today in economic prosperity,” said Minister Blaney. “The ability to facilitate the mobility of students and researchers from the four corners of the earth and to increase exchanges between francophone universities and institutions contributes to the promotion of French language, culture and knowledge.
“Francophone universities also support the principles and fundamental values of La Francophonie, in particular democracy, human rights, good governance and the rule of law.
“International education and research are essential pillars that promote strong economic ties, increase human capacity and strengthen bilateral relations in today’s global economy. I hope that CIRUISEF will be a vehicle of ideas and will forge the lasting links required to attract the best talent in the francophone world to our country, making Canada a leader in international education.”
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For further information, media representatives may contact:
Jean-Christophe de le Rue
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Minister for La Francophonie
613-996-4649
Foreign Affairs Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
613-995-1874
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