FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Halifax, Canada – Peter Van Praagh, President of Halifax International Security Forum, today unveiled a new year-long initiative focused on China.

“It’s no longer a secret that Xi Jinping’s China is working hard to make the world safe for authoritarianism,” said Van Praagh. “It is time for a comprehensive China strategy for the United States, Canada and their allies – one that makes the world safe for democracy.”

“Over the next 12 months, Halifax will consult with subject experts and thought leaders to get their input on what can be done to confront this growing threat to our freedom,” added Van Praagh.

The strategy paper will be released at the 2020 Halifax International Security Forum, which will be held two weeks after the next U.S. Presidential election. The document will recognize China’s significance as an economic power, while stressing the primacy of democratic values.

“We know all too well from the history of the past century that democracy is fragile. Yet there are some who feel that standing up for it, taking risks for it, and demanding it is a bit too much,” concluded Van Praagh. “On behalf of every participant to this Forum, I say:  Demanding freedom and dignity is never too much.”

You can find Peter Van Praagh’s opening remarks on the Forum’s website.

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Robin MacLachlan, Communications Manager, Halifax International Security Forum – (613) 294-6128

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