Prime Minister Harper announces progress in talks with Québec on UNESCO

Prime Minister participates in 2006 and 2008 Francophone Summits

March 8, 2006
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Québec Premier Jean Charest met in Québec City today. Following this second meeting by the two leaders, Prime Minister Harper announced tangible measures that reflect the exemplary cooperation that exists between their two governments.

"As I had indicated when I was in Québec City on December 19, ‘a new Conservative government will invite Québec to participate at UNESCO’. Today, Premier Charest and I agreed to task our ministers to work towards a formal agreement on Québec's role within UNESCO," stated the Prime Minister.

In addition, both governments will work together to host and organise the Francophone Summit, which will take place in Québec City in 2008.

Finally, Prime Minister Harper is keenly aware of the enviable position of Canada and Québec within the international Francophonie, and committed to attending the upcoming Francophone Summit in Bucharest, Romania, in September 2006.

"What I am announcing today reflects my strong commitment towards an open federalism that will help us take tangible measures that respect our governments' priorities and benefit all Québecers and all Canadians," the Prime Minister concluded.

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The Prime Minister’s Office - Communications