News Release

From the Prime Minister's Web Site (http://www.pm.gc.ca/)

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Prime Minister Harper meets with Afghan President Karzai and Pakistani Prime Minister Aziz

March 14, 2006
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper met today with Afghan President Hamid Karzai in Kabul, Afghanistan. The two leaders discussed the challenges Afghanistan faces in achieving its objectives of rebuilding a free, democratic and peaceful country.

President Karzai expressed his gratitude for the support Canada has offered Afghanistan. Prime Minister Harper offered his congratulations on the significant progress already made and reiterated Canada’s unwavering commitment to the people of Afghanistan.

The Government of Canada recently announced that its development funding level for Afghanistan will remain at $100 million for 2006-07, the same as the previous year. This will bring Canada’s total contribution to over $650 million between 2001 and 2009. Canada has played a significant role in assisting the Afghan government’s efforts to enhance security, create new economic opportunities and address the challenge of combating illegal drugs.

Prime Minister Harper also met today with Pakistani Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz in Islamabad, Pakistan. The discussion focused on development, cooperation, reconstruction following the 2005 earthquake, and regional security as well as the fight against terrorism. Prime Minister Harper underscored that Pakistan is a key ally in the fight against terrorism and its contribution is well appreciated.

The two bilateral meetings followed Prime Minister Harper’s visit with the Canadian Forces and the Provincial Reconstruction Team in Kandahar, Afghanistan.

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The Prime Minister’s Office - Communications
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Statement by the Prime Minister on the opening of the XVIII Commonwealth Games in Melbourne, Australia

March 14, 2006
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement:

“I’d like to wish our Canadian athletes and coaches the very best during their competitions over the next 12 days. Canada has a proud history of exceptional performances at the Commonwealth Games and I know that our Canadian team will continue to excel, thanks to their dedication and their confidence.”

“The Commonwealth Games are a unique event, bringing together
71 nations in the spirit of friendship, shared history, and links that transcend cultural boundaries and physical barriers. These Games promote excellence in sport but also fellowship among nations, and the important role of sport in healthy living and in social and personal development.”

“All Canadians stand behind our exceptional athletes, who inspire us, serve as role models to our youth and make us proud. I know I join all Canadians in wishing the best of luck to Team Canada in Melbourne.”

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The Prime Minister’s Office - Communications