News Release

EDMUNDSTON (GNB) – The provincial government held a series of meetings with a number of visiting dignitaries on the first day of the World Acadian Congress.

Premier David Alward and Deputy Premier Paul Robichaud, who is also the Minister responsible for the Francophonie, met with the following individuals:

• Stephen Harper, Prime Minister of Canada;
• Michaëlle Jean, former governor general of Canada and a candidate for the position of Secretary-General of the International Organization of the Francophonie;
• Phillip Zeller, France’s ambassador to Canada; and
• Nancy Ndiaye Ngom, Senegal’s ambassador to Canada.

Lt.-Gov. Graydon Nicholas held a meeting with the United States ambassador to Canada Bruce Heyman.

Social Development Minister Madeleine Dubé also met with Daniel Sotiaux, the delegate from Wallonia-Brussels, and the deputy consul general of Belgium in Montreal Bart Coessens.

“The World Acadian Congress is an ideal opportunity to celebrate the successes and evolution of the Acadian people and the international Francophonie,” said Alward. “We value the relations between New Brunswick and these special partners. Today’s bilateral meetings have led to worthwhile exchanges and have enabled us to strengthen the ties that bind us.”

The agreements constitute a framework for action that highlights New Brunswick and Acadian expertise, leading to opportunities on a global scale and to the province’s economic development.

“This is a great day for Acadie, New Brunswick and the Francophonie,” said Robichaud. “Welcoming these dignitaries to the opening of the World Acadian Congress honours us and makes us proud. It clearly shows that Acadie continues to charm people with its heritage and legendary joie de vivre.”

The World Acadian Congress being held in l'Acadie des terres et forêts (the land and forests of Acadie) is taking place in three areas, New Brunswick, Quebec, and Maine, from Aug. 8-24.