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Former Prime Minister John Turner to attend the commemoration ceremony for Yitzhak Rabin on behalf of Prime Minister Martin
November 10, 2005
NEWS RELEASE
Prime Minister Paul Martin today announced that former Prime Minister John Turner will attend a ceremony commemorating the 10th anniversary of the assassination of former Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin.
"A decade ago, Israelis were deprived of a visionary and courageous man who was an inspiration to many," said Prime Minister Martin. "His message of peace and hope is as important and resonant now as it was 10 years ago. We encourage Israel, the Palestinian Authority, and the international community to honour Mr. Rabin's legacy through a forward-looking and meaningful engagement that places the voices of moderation on both sides of the issue at the forefront. Canada will continue to work with both sides for a sustainable peace that gives dignity to all parties."
On November 14, 2005, Canada will join Israel and the world community in remembering Mr. Rabin for his role in bringing peace to the Middle East. In 1975, he concluded a peace agreement with Egypt; in 1993 he signed an agreement with the late Palestinian Authority President Yasser Arafat; and in 1994 he established a peace treaty with Jordan and won the Nobel Peace Prize for his pursuit of peace.
The Government of Canada continues to be an active and engaged partner in the region. In September, the Prime Minister pledged $24.5 million to the Palestinian Authority for reform and institution building, bringing new support this year for the Palestinian Authority and the Middle East peace process to $36.7 million. Canada also continues to fund projects that encourage dialogue by both sides such as the Talk Peace-Make Peace initiative which brings young Israeli and Palestinian political activists together to share their views.
While in Israel, Mr. Turner will convey Canada's determination to ensure that Mr. Rabin's dream of peace in the Middle East is achieved.
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