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<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial', sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt"><span style="font-weight: bold">June 30, 2006 <i>(5:25 p.m. EDT)</i><span> </span></span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial', sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt"><span style="font-weight: bold">No. 72</span></span></span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center"><span style="font-weight: bold"><span style="font-size: 14pt">MINISTER MACKAY EXPRESSES CONCERN OVER SITUATION IN
THE GAZA STRIP</span></span></p>
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<p>The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of the Atlantic
Canada Opportunities Agency, today issued the following statement in response to the
current situation in Gaza:<span> </span></p>
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<p>“Canada is concerned about the escalation in violence and urges all sides to act with
restraint and take all measures possible to protect innocent civilian lives and reduce
tensions.</p>
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<p>“We call for the immediate and unconditional release of Israeli Corporal Gilad Shalit.</p>
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<p>“The Palestinian Authority must assume its share of responsibility for securing his safe
return. </p>
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<p>“We understand the gravity of this situation for Israel and recognize its right to protect
its citizens.</p>
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<p>“In line with our G8 partners, Canada reiterates its commitment to a negotiated,
comprehensive and lasting settlement in the Middle East.”</p>
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<p style="text-align: center">- 30 -</p>
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<p>For further information, media representatives may contact:</p>
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<p>Foreign Affairs Media Relations Office<br>
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada<br>
(613) 995-1874<br>
<a href="https://bac-lac.wayback.archive-it.org/web/20070221012920/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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