Summit of the Americas Major Challenges and Potentials Canadaáæs future is inextricably linked to that of our partners in the Americas geographically, economically and politically. Together we stand at a significant moment in our common history as we face the collective challenge of transforming the regionáæs political, economic and social promise into a more prosperous, secure and freer future for all citizens. In April 2001 the presidents and prime ministers of the 34 democratically elected governments of the Western Hemisphere will meet in Quebec city at the third summit of the Americas to chart a common course for the new millennium. As chair of the summit Canada has played a leading role in developing the agenda and providing support for preparatory activities. These efforts represent a major undertaking requiring co-operation among federal, provincial/territorial and municipal governments as well as information sharing and consultation with the private sector and society organizations.
The first two summits of Americas help in United States in 1994 and in Santiago in 1998 fostered comprehensive practical cooperation on a range of issues of common concern In Miami leaders sought to strengthen hemispheric partnerships in order to encourage the advancement of mutual interests including peace democracy prosperity and social justice their aim was to channel the momentum created by the convergence of democratic values and a new spirit of economic liberalization in the region into a plan of action with 23 initiatives grouped under the following themes.
ÃÂÃÂ Preserving and Strengthening the Community of Democracies in the Americas.
ÃÂÃÂ Promoting Prosperity through economic integration and free trade.
ÃÂÃÂ Eradicating Poverty and discrimination in the hemisphere.
ÃÂÃÂ Guaranteeing sustainable development and conserving the natural environment for future generations.
Following the Miami summit the summit implementation review group was created to monitor and manage follow-up and implementation of summit...