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<p><font size="+1"></font><font size="+1"><strong>March 22, 2004 <em>(3:10 p.m. EST)</em> No. 46</strong></font></p>
<p align="CENTER"><font size="+1"><strong>GRAHAM CONDEMNS KILLING OF SHEIK YASSIN</strong></font></p>
<p>Foreign Affairs Minister Bill Graham today issued the following statement concerning
the assassination of Sheik Ahmed Yassin in Gaza City and the killing of up to seven
other Palestinians, including civilians:</p>
<p>"Canada fully recognizes Israel's right to defend itself and its citizens against terrorism
and has consistently condemned the terrorist attacks it has faced. Canada has also
designated Hamas as a terrorist organization with Sheik Ahmed Yassin as its
recognized leader.</p>
<p>"The extra-judicial killing of Sheik Yassin is simply unacceptable and contrary to Israel's
international obligations.</p>
<p>"We condemn this attack, which will only inflame tensions in the region and create yet
another obstacle to achieving a peaceful resolution to the conflict.</p>
<p>"Canada calls for restraint and reaffirms that the only solution to this impasse is a
negotiated process toward implementing the Road Map."</p>
<p align="CENTER">- 30 -</p>
<p>For further information, media representatives may contact:</p>
<p>Isabelle Savard<br>
Director of Communications<br>
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs<br>
(613) 995-1851</p>
<p>Media Relations Office<br>
Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade<br>
(613) 995-1874<br>
<a href="https://bac-lac.wayback.archive-it.org/web/20070221094610/http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/">http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca</a></p>
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