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<title>GRAHAM EXPRESSES SYMPATHY OVER LIVES LOST IN MIDDLE EAST </title>
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<p><font size="+1"></font><font size="+1"><strong>September 10, 2003 <em>(4:10 p.m. EDT)</em> No. 129</strong></font></p>
<p align="CENTER"><font size="+1"><strong>GRAHAM EXPRESSES SYMPATHY OVER LIVES LOST IN MIDDLE EAST </strong></font></p>
<p>Foreign Affairs Minister Bill Graham today issued the following statement concerning the recent escalation of violence in
the Middle East:</p>
<p>"Canada extends its deepest sympathy and most sincere condolences to the families who have lost loved ones as a result of
the recent violence in the Middle East. We are profoundly saddened by the loss of so many innocent lives.</p>
<p>"We continue to call upon all parties to engage in constructive dialogue, in an effort to put an end to this horrible bloodshed
and loss of life. These tragic events emphasize the urgency for both sides to put the peace process back on track. </p>
<p>"Canada remains committed to a just and lasting peace through a negotiated and equitable settlement, and will continue to
play its part in achieving this objective."</p>
<p align="CENTER">- 30 -</p>
<p>For further information, media representatives may contact:</p>
<p>Isabelle Savard</p>
<p>Director of Communications</p>
<p>Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs</p>
<p>(613) 995-1851</p>
<p>Media Relations Office</p>
<p>Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade</p>
<p>(613) 995-1874</p>
<p><a href="https://bac-lac.wayback.archive-it.org/web/20071123034337/http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/">http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca</a></p>
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