July 9, 1999

Tri-National Accord Delegates

Dear Colleague:

Re: July, 2000, Tri-National Accord Meeting in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

It is my great pleasure to invite you to attend the 2000 NAFTA Trilateral Accord Meeting in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan in July, 2000.

Agriculture is the heart of Saskatchewan and its people. We have over 65 million acres of farmland with an average 35 million acres in crop each year. We produce up to 50 different crops. We also have a diversified industry including a growing livestock sector.

International trade is a huge issue for Saskatchewan agriculture: We export 80 per cent of what we produce. As the upcoming WTO agricultural round negotiations will be well underway when we meet at the 2000 Accord, I’m sure that WTO issues will be on the agenda.

At this year’s meeting, we will be discussing the mechanisms for more direct communication on trade issues between our jurisdictions. Direct discussion will help us identify and pursue common trade interests and dispel any misconceptions about our respective industries. The 2000 Accord meeting will be a chance to evaluate an build on these links.

Impressive as it is, Saskatchewan’s farmland is 40 per cent of our land mass. The northern half of our province is boreal forest, with some of the best fishing in the world. We are planning activities for you and your spouses to explore the wide diversity of our province and experience our famous prairie hospitality.

You will receive more information on the 2000 Accord meeting when the dates have been finalized. I or my staff would be delighted to tell you all about Saskatchewan during breaks at this year’s meeting. I look forward to seeing you in Saskatchewan in July, 2000.

Sincerely yours,

[Signed]

Eric Upshall

Minister

Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food