June 05, 2004

Prime Minister Paul Martin issued the following statement Saturday upon the news of the death of former United States President Ronald Reagan:

“It was with great sorrow that I learned earlier today of the passing of former US President Ronald Reagan.

”During his tenure as president, President Reagan's leadership served to define an era of sweeping geo-political change. In particular, he helped lay the foundations for the end of the cold war and a period of much greater co-operation between the West and the nations of the former Soviet Union.

“As well, important changes occurred in the Canada-US relationship during President Reagan's two terms, including negotiations that led to the establishment of the Canada-U.S. Free Trade Agreement

“A veteran of World War Two, Ronald Reagan committed much of his adult life to public service. His wit, warmth and unique capacity to communicate helped to make him one of the most influential figures in the second half of the 20th century.

“On behalf of Sheila, myself and all Canadians, I extend our nation’s sympathies to Nancy Reagan, her family and the American people.”