Prime minister Jean ChrŽtien tried to break down the European Union barrier to imports of genetically modified Canadian canola by presenting himself as a healthy and fit poster boy for GM consumption.
It did not work.
French president Jacques Chirac was reportedly bemused, but insisted that French officials are justified in demanding more scientific proof of safety before GM products can be imported.
He referred to recent food safety problems brought on by mad cow disease in Britain and insisted the French view is science and safety based, not trade protectionist.
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During a state visit to France June 22, ChrŽtien made the canola issue one of his main topics.
He tried to convince Chirac to soften the French opposition to GMO imports, which has helped lead to an effective moratorium on GMO imports into the EU. The dispute blocks Canadian canola producers from trade worth millions of dollars.
According to a transcript of a Paris news conference provided by the foreign affairs department, ChrŽtien told the French leader he is living proof that GM foods are safe because he eats them.
“Yes, and I told him that I’m in good health,” ChrŽtien told reporters as Chirac looked on.
ChrŽtien said he can sympathize with Chirac’s demand for caution, even in the face of such good Canadian evidence.
“I explained to him that we have used these products in Canada for a long while – and when he looks at the Canadian delegation he finds us in very good health,” ChrŽtien said. “But he claims that it has to be established by more scientific people than my opinion or his. So I agree that we have to make sure there are no dangers, but eventually we should have an acceptable scientific answer.”
