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<p><span style="font-size: 14pt"></span><span style="font-size: 14pt"><strong>March 2, 2004 </strong></span><span style="font-size: 14pt"><strong><em>(5:40 p.m. EST)</em> No. 30</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: CENTER"><span style="font-size: 14pt"><strong>GRAHAM CONDEMNS ATTACKS IN IRAQ</strong></span></p>
<p>Foreign Affairs Minister Bill Graham today issued the following statement after a series
of deadly attacks in Baghdad and Karbala, killing more than 140 Shia pilgrims, during
the commemoration of Ashoura:</p>
<p>"On behalf of all Canadians I extend my sincere condolences to those who have lost
loved ones to these senseless acts of terror, and my sympathies to those who have
been injured. It is particularly disturbing that these attacks have come in the midst of
such an important religious festival.</p>
<p>"Canada condemns these attacks and hopes that the perpetrators will be brought to
justice. The recent escalation in violence, including the February 1 attacks on the
headquarters of the two largest Kurdish political parties in Irbil, is appalling. As the
deadline for the transition to sovereign Iraqi rule approaches, we condemn those who
seek to derail the process. We urge that these events not lessen the resolve of those
working to lay the foundations for a democratic and stable future. It is not the time for
violence, but for all Iraqis to join together in the effort to rebuild their country."</p>
<p style="text-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/20071123082941/http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/">http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca</a></p>
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