News Release

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

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PM announces support to strengthen security in Costa Rica

Will help front-line Costa Rican police fight crime, benefitting both countries

August 11, 2011
San José, Costa Rica

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today announced the Government will support the Enhanced Foreign Candidate Program and Costa Rican Police Enhancement Program that will strengthen the national police force in Costa Rica and help make the region a safer place for travellers and businesses. The Prime Minister also announced the Government will help enhance security for the Costa Rican tourism industry, through the Capacity Building and Security Training for the Tourism Industry project.

"Improving security and stability in our hemisphere is critical to the long-term safety and prosperity of citizens in Canada and other countries," Prime Minister Harper said. "Through today's commitments, we are helping Costa Rica to become a safer place for its citizens and for travellers and businesses from abroad, thereby protecting our interests in the region and ultimately at home."

All three initiatives will be funded by Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada's Anti-Crime Capacity-Building Program (ACCBP), launched by Prime Minister Harper in 2009. The ACCBP provides up to $15 million a year to help countries within the Americas prevent and respond to threats posed by criminals operating throughout the western hemisphere.

The measures announced today aim to enhance regional stability and security and are consistent with the Government's Engagement in the Americas strategy, which is focused on: reinforcing democratic governance, increasing economic prosperity and advancing our common security.

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The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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