March 20, 2004
Ottawa, Ontario

STATEMENT BY THE PRIME MINISTER

It is with great sadness and regret that I learned of the death of Her Royal Highness Princess Juliana. During the years she spent in Ottawa with her family during World War II, the Canadian people took her into their hearts. Their love for her and the Netherlands formed the foundation for today's special relations between our two countries.

On behalf of all Canadians, I would like to express my sincere condolences to her family and the Dutch people.

This fall, as we prepare to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the liberation of the Netherlands, we shall not forget the many achievements of Her Royal Highness Princess Juliana. She played a vital role in nurturing the enduring friendship between our two countries and her great affection for Canada and Canadians will never be forgotten.