December 14, 2003
Ottawa, Ontario

STATEMENT BY THE PRIME MINISTER

Prime Minister Paul Martin today issued the following statement:

"On behalf of all Canadians, I want to congratulate the Iraqi people, the Governing Council, and coalition forces on the capture of former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein.

This welcome development, and ultimately Saddam Hussein being brought to justice, will enhance the prospects for early reconciliation while paving the way to allow Iraq to rejoin the community of nations.

Canada will continue to work with the coalition, and the United States, as well as international institutions to support the reconstruction effort in Iraq."