August 21, 2014 - Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird today announced that he will visit Norway, Denmark and Austria from August 22 to 27, 2014. During his trip, Baird will work to advance a number of Canada’s foreign policy priorities, including strengthening international security, promoting Arctic cooperation and building opportunities for two-way trade and investment with Europe.
In Norway and Denmark specifically, Baird will meet with his counterparts to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the Arctic and how best to create conditions for dynamic economic growth and vibrant Northern communities. These meetings will be taking place as Prime Minister Stephen Harper participates in his ninth annual Northern tour of Yukon, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut, where he continues to advance the priorities set out in Canada’s Northern Strategy.
“The Arctic is fundamental to Canada’s national identity and will play a role in Canada’s future prosperity,” said Baird. “As the Chair of the Arctic Council, Canada remains committed to working closely with other Arctic states, such as Norway and Denmark, to promote and protect its northern interests and to cooperate on a broader vision for the region.”
In Austria, Minister Baird will participate in the International Peace Institute-Salzburg Global Seminar conference, during which he will draw on lessons of the past to engage in a discussion among experts on how the international community can best work together to address current threats to global peace, security and stability.
“When a major power such as the Russian Federation acts in a way that is so aggressive, militaristic and imperialistic, it represents a significant threat to the peace and stability of the world that cannot be ignored,” said Baird. “Canada continues to push for a strong and coordinated response to Russian aggression in Ukraine as we work with allies and partners to apply pressure on the Putin regime through targeted sanctions and economic and political isolation.”
- 30 -
For further information, media representatives may contact:
Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
343-203-7700
media@international.gc.ca
Follow us on Twitter: @DFATDCanada
Like us on Facebook: Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada-DFATD
