Canada backs Yemen's joining Commonwealth of Nations

Canada on Monday expressed its backing for Yemen in its efforts to join the Commonwealth of Nations.

Following a meeting with Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh, currently visiting Yemen, Canadian Prime Minister Jan Chretien said, "We will be very happy if Yemen becomes member of the commonwealth," but this matter can be only discussed in the semiannual meeting of the league. He stressed that his country will back the Yemeni request.

On Monday, the Yemeni president concluded his visit to Canada and headed from there to the US, after which he will head for Italy and the Vatican.