NEWS RELEASES

February 26, 2004 (4:00 p.m. EST) No. 28

GRAHAM EXPRESSES CONDOLENCES ON DEATH OF MACEDONIAN PRESIDENT

Foreign Affairs Minister Bill Graham today extended condolences to the people of Macedonia and the family of President Boris Trajkovski on their tragic loss. President Trajkovski died earlier today in a plane crash while on his way to an investment conference in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina.

"Canadians are saddened to learn of President Trajkovski's untimely death. He was a progressive leader and a champion of peace and tolerance in Macedonia. He played an important role in brokering the Ohrid Framework Agreement, bringing an end to the violent conflict of 2001 in Macedonia. He was a keen advocate of inter-ethnic reconciliation and regional cooperation.

"President Trajkovski was a supporter of Macedonia's transatlantic future and will be greatly missed on the international political stage.

"The heartfelt sympathy of Canadians goes out to the Macedonian community in Canada, to President Trajkovski's family and to all of the citizens of Macedonia."

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For further information, media representatives may contact:

Isabelle Savard
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
(613) 995-1851

Media Relations Office
Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
(613) 995-1874
http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca