November 21, 2002 (4:00 p.m. EST) No. 152

STATEMENT BY FOREIGN AFFAIRS MINISTER GRAHAM

ON THE DEATH OF PRINCE TAKAMADO OF JAPAN

Foreign Affairs Minister Bill Graham today issued the following statement upon receiving news that His Imperial Highness Prince Takamado of Japan had passed away suddenly:

"I was deeply saddened to learn that his Imperial Highness Prince Takamado passed away suddenly today at the Keio University Hospital in Tokyo. Canada has lost a special friend in Prince Takamado, who has been an avid proponent of close ties between our countries since his studies at Queen's University. During his numerous visits to Canada, His Imperial Highness travelled to many parts of the country. A tireless promoter of Japanese culture around the world, the Prince was also well known for his charitable works.

"On behalf of all Canadians, I extend our deepest sympathies to Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado, the Imperial Family and the people of Japan."

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