November 5, 1999
(Executive Council)

1999 Atlantic Canada Diplomatic Forum

The 1999 Atlantic Canada Diplomatic Forum is being held in St. John's over the next two days. It is the second diplomatic retreat to be organized by the Government of Canada, and is intended to be held annually. The event is sponsored by the federal Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in conjunction with the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. The province's Intergovernmental Affairs Secretariat has assisted in the planning and conduct of the sessions. Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Walter Noel says: "The objective of this forum is to provide foreign heads of diplomatic missions and their spouses, in Canada, with a more in-depth knowledge and understanding of emerging trends and issues in the country, and regional perspectives on national and local issues. The forum provides participants with an opportunity to discuss these issues in an informal though structured setting. The 1998 Diplomatic Forum was held in Banff, Alberta, and was attended by over 200 delegates. Over 110 countries are expected to be represented in St. John's this weekend."

"The Diplomatic Forum is an excellent opportunity to inform influential representatives of countries throughout the world about our region and province," Minister Noel said. "It will provide them with considerable insight into the issues facing the Atlantic region, particularly Newfoundland and Labrador, and give diplomats an opportunity to meet with business and community leaders, which should prove to be of real benefit to all involved.

"In an era of increasing globalization, it is important for our province to make the connections with representatives from other countries that this opportunity provides. It will be a great learning experience for these diplomats, who will get the chance to explore a region of the country about which they may not be fully informed. It is an excellent opportunity for our province to promote issues and endeavors with which these important officials could be very helpful allies, and to make sure they are aware of the great economic progress we are making, and the exciting opportunities on our horizon."

Federal ministers Lloyd Axworthy, Stephane Dion, Ralph Goodale and George Baker will be participating in the forum, along with Premiers Hamm, Lord, Okalik and Tobin. George Baker and Premier Brian Tobin will be official speakers during the proceedings.

Media contact: Lynn Barter, (709) 729-0084.

1999 11 03                        9:50 a.m.