NEWS RELEASES

July 7, 2005 (5:45 p.m. EDT)
No. 123

MINISTER PETTIGREW CONDEMNS THE KILLING OF EGYPT’S TOP ENVOY TO IRAQ

Foreign Affairs Minister Pierre Pettigrew today issued the following statement condemning the killing of Ihab el-Sherif, Egypt’s top envoy to Iraq:

“Canada condemns this heinous act. Mr. el-Sherif was a friend of Canada and a well-respected diplomat. His passing is a great loss to both Egypt and the Arab world. Canada extends its sympathy and condolences to his family.

“We strongly denounce the killing of innocent Iraqi citizens and foreigners. The perpetrators of such acts must be brought to justice. We will continue to assist in strengthening the Iraqi police forces’ capacity to arrest criminals and restore security.

“We firmly support the democratic transition and reconstruction of Iraq. We call on all groups to renounce violence and to participate in the political process. Canada strongly condemns all acts of violence.”

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For further information, media representatives may contact:

Sébastien Théberge
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
(613) 995-1851

Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs Canada
(613) 995-1874
http://www.international.gc.ca