News Release

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

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PRIME MINISTER HARPER ANNOUNCES STATE VISIT TO FRANCE BY THE GOVERNOR GENERAL

May 4, 2008
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today announced that Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada, will represent Canada on an official visit to France from May 6 to 10, 2008.

The Governor General will travel to France to highlight the 400th anniversary of the founding of Québec City and participate in celebrations commemorating Victory in Europe Day, May 8, 1945. The Governor General will visit Paris, Ouistreham, Bény-sur-Mer, La Rochelle and Bordeaux.

This visit will provide an opportunity to highlight both the historic ties that unite the two countries and their common values, which include respect for freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law.

France is an important partner on the international stage. 2008 is a significant year for the bilateral relationship, with the 400th anniversary of the founding of Québec City, but also Canada's hosting of the Francophonie Summit and the Canada-European Union Summit, coinciding with France's presidency of the European Union.

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The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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