1999 - Opening Remarks

The Hon. Sheila Copps,
Heritage Minister of Canada

I would like to express my warmest thanks to Mexico for hosting this Second Meeting of the International Network on Cultural Policies.

Canada is pleased to see our friends from Mexico forming part of this initiative which began in Ottawa in June 1998 with the aim of developing new global policies in cultural affairs.

I am particularly happy to be here in Oaxaca. This monastery is incredibly rich in history and creative wealth. A perfect scenario chosen by my friend and colleague Rafael Tovar.

Allow me first of all to say that I am very pleased to see Canada’s contribution enriched by the contribution of the Ministers responsible for culture of the provincial governments of Quebec and Newfoundland and Labrador.

We have now reached a crossroads. The third millennium is on our doorstep and a new world is about to see the light of day.

It is a world rich in possibilities. Rich in traditions, as testified by the streets and monuments here in Oaxaca. Rich in a cultural diversity that must be preserved for our children and the coming generations.

It is conviction that brings us together here, and it is the raison d’être of the International Network.

Now more than ever, it is important to find a balance between the free circulation of goods and services and the preservation of cultural diversity.

This is an aspect we are all confronted with. The vitality of our cultures depends on our ability to ensure that cultural considerations are taken into account on the international agenda.

I am proud to inform you today that since our first meeting in Ottawa, the Network has expanded and now includes 33 countries from all parts of the world.

I am very pleased to see that with Mexico’s leadership, other countries are joining the Network. I hope to see you in Greece for the next meeting of the Network in the new millennium.

The following year our Swiss friends will welcome us all to their beautiful country, and I can almost assure you they will have innovative ideas.

Our working network is in good health. Its design allows us to do what other organizations have been unable to do. We are a working network of countries, but we also welcome the viewpoints of the makers of culture.

I would like to welcome Unesco and the National Endowment for the Arts of the United States, which are taking part in this meeting.

A few years ago, at the Rio de Janeiro conference, we designed a Plan of Action to protect our biodiversity. Today, the challenge we all face is to ensure that we are protecting our cultural diversity.

Back to Top