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<p><span style="font-size: 14pt"><span style="font-weight: bold">October 8, 2005 <i>(12:10 p.m. EDT)</i><br>
No. 180</span></span></p>
<br>
<p style="text-align: center"><span style="font-size: 14pt"><span style="font-weight: bold">MINISTER PETTIGREW CONDEMNS ATTACK ON MEMBERS OF
MINORITY AHMADIYYA SECT</span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt"></span></p>
<br>
<p>Foreign Affairs Minister Pierre Pettigrew today issued the following statement
concerning the attacks that took place in Mandi Bahauddin, Pakistan. Preliminary
media reports indicate at least eight people were killed and as many as 20 injured when
a group of men opened fire at a prayer gathering on Friday.</p>
<br>
<p>“Canada strongly condemns this attack on innocent worshippers, and we are deeply
troubled by such incidents. On behalf of all Canadians, we extend our deepest
sympathies to the victims and their families.</p>
<br>
<p>“While the details are still unfolding, this is clearly an act directed against innocent
civilians. The perpetrators must be found and brought to justice. Canada condemns all
persecution of religious groups, and urges the Government of Pakistan to protect the
security of Ahmadi Muslims and other minority groups in the country.</p>
<br>
<p style="text-align: center">- 30 -</p>
<p>For further information, media representatives may contact:</p>
<br>
<p>Sébastien Théberge<br>
Director of Communications<br>
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs<br>
(613) 995-1851</p>
<br>
<p>Media Relations Office<br>
Foreign Affairs Canada<br>
(613) 995-1874<br>
<a href="https://bac-lac.wayback.archive-it.org/web/20070220185618/http://www.international.gc.ca/"><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="text-decoration: underline">http://www.international.gc.ca</span></span></a><span style="color: #000000"></span></p>
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