National Park Twinning Formally Links Canada and China in Conservation Efforts
Banff, Alberta, July 14, 2013 -- Mr. Blake Richards, Member of Parliament for Wild Rose, on behalf of the Honourable Peter Kent, Canada’s Environment Minister and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, today announced a twinning arrangement between Banff National Park and Huangshan National Forest Park in China. The agreement will support international co-operation and sharing of conservation expertise between our two countries for the benefit of these iconic national parks.
“Among the first protected areas in our respective countries, Banff National Park and China’s Huangshan National Forest Park are hereby united as sister parks,” said Mr. Richards. “Banff National Park is excited to collaborate with our international partners, like China, on conservation issues of common interest.”
It is recognized that there are many commonalities between the parks, both being UNESCO World Heritage Sites located in the mountains that are among the most famous parks within each country, sharing similarities of world-class vistas, natural hot springs and a rich history. The twinning arrangement between these two iconic parks, separated by thousands of kilometres, understands the importance of global appreciation of national parks, their role in protecting natural and cultural heritage and their role in engaging citizens in conservation.
“The Government of Canada is proud to welcome Huangshan National Forest Park into an international friendship and collaboration with Banff National Park,” said Minister Kent. “Together, Canada and China will share knowledge and experiences to ensure the natural and cultural treasures of these special places remain unimpaired for generations of visitors to enjoy.”
Parks Canada works to ensure Canada’s historic and natural heritage is protected and, through a network of 44 national parks, 167 national historic sites, and four national marine conservation areas, invites Canadians and people around the world to engage in personal moments of inspiring discovery at our treasured natural and historic places.
For additional information, please see the accompanying backgrounder at www.parkscanada.gc.ca under Media Room.
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Information:
Mary Ann Dewey-Plante
Office of the Minister of the Environment
819-997-1441
Media Relations
Parks Canada
819-953-8371
www.twitter.com/ParksCanada
Backgrounder associated with this News Release.
Twinning of Canada’s Banff National Park and China’s Huangshan National Forest Park
