The Government of Prince Edward Island along with Canadian Heritage and the Société Saint-Thomas-d'Aquin, the Island's main Acadian and Francophone community group, recently hosted dignitaries representing twenty countries that will participate in the Francophone Summit in early September in Moncton. The UNESCO ambassador to Canada was also part of the delegation.
The dignitaries, who included ambassadors, high commissioners and minister-counselors, were received by the "Fathers of Confederation" at Province House. This was followed by a presentation at the Carrefour de l'Isle-Saint-Jean on the development of the Acadian and Francophone community of the capital region.
"The hosting of the Francophone Summit within an hour from PEI opens doors to 49 countries allowing for a variety of opportunities. Having the chance to meet with representatives of 20 of these countries offers a significant first contact for Islanders," notes Mitch Murphy, Minister Responsible for Francophone Affairs.
The dignitaries also participated in a demonstration of distance education opportunities at the Educational Society in Wellington as well as meeting with representatives of the Acadian and Francophone community in Abram-Village. Local community representatives had the opportunity to explain their interest in developing cooperation and business links with countries of La Francophonie. A number of follow-up meetings are planned between officials for the weekend of the Francophone Summit September 3-5 in Moncton, New Brunswick.
For more information contact: Daniel Bourgeois, (902) 854-7250