Annual Meeting of Canada-France Joint Cooperation Commission in Marystown

Judy Foote, Minister of Development and Rural Renewal, noted today the holding of the second annual meeting of the Joint Commission on Regional Cooperation between St. Pierre and Miquelon and the Atlantic Provinces of Canada in Marystown from June 5-6, 1997.

The joint Canada-France Commission was established in 1995 to foster improved relations on a number of fronts between Canada and the French territoriality of St. Pierre and Miquelon. All four Atlantic Provinces participate on this commission, with ACOA acting as lead federal agency and the head of the Canadian delegation. The Department of Development and Rural Renewal represents Newfoundland and Labrador on the Commission. The Commission meets annually, alternating between St. Pierre and Miquelon and an Atlantic Canada site. Minister Foote noted that delegates to the Marystown meeting will continue with discussions initiated last year on issues pertaining to the economy, tourism, international trade, culture and sports.

"I am pleased that the first meeting of the Joint Commission in Canada is being held in Newfoundland and Labrador to coincide with the Cabot 500 celebrations. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to working closely with St. Pierre and Miquelon to explore new economic and business opportunities and views the Atlantic-wide Joint Commission as a complementary initiative to the province's own activities with St. Pierre and Miquelon that my department leads," said Minister Foote.

Contact: Judy M. Foote, Minister of Development and Rural Renewal (709) 729-4729