NEWS RELEASES
October 25, 2005 (3:40 p.m. EDT)
No. 195
MINISTER PETTIGREW CONGRATULATES IRAQIS ON
CONSTITUTION RATIFICATION
Foreign Affairs Minister Pierre Pettigrew today issued the following statement
supporting ratification of Iraq’s constitution:
“Canada congratulates the people of Iraq on the ratification of their constitution. We
salute the courage and commitment shown by the large number of Iraqis who voted
under perilous conditions for the establishment of a democratic system in Iraq.
“This is a major step in the political transition and reconstruction of Iraq. The new
constitution lays the foundation for a democratic, pluralistic and federal state in Iraq. It
also calls for a process of further constitutional negotiations to consolidate national
reconciliation.
“We call on Iraq’s leaders to reflect upon the significant opposition to the constitution
and to consider ways to address the concerns of those who voted against it. It will be
important to find ways to work together across communal lines to build a stable, unified
and prosperous Iraq.
“Canada will continue to work with the Iraqi authorities for the reconstruction and
democratic transition of Iraq, as well as for the implementation of an Iraqi constitution
consistent with international standards of human rights, including women’s rights,
gender equality and minority rights.”
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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
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