PRIME MINISTER WELCOMES THE RELEASE OF WILLIAM SAMPSON

August 8, 2003
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Jean Chrétien today issued this statement following the release of William Sampson from detention in Saudi Arabia:

"I welcome the release of Mr. Sampson from detention in Saudi Arabia. I would like to express my sympathy for Mr. Sampson and his family, both of whom endured extreme hardship during his captivity.

Mr. Sampson's release was secured thanks to the hard work of many people. I would like to extend my sincere congratulations to the Canadian and British diplomatic representatives in Saudi Arabia and to Mr. Sampson's Saudi legal team. All involved worked tirelessly to ensure that Mr. Sampson's legal rights were upheld.

I would also like to personally thank Ministers Graham and Boudria, and my special envoy, Senator Pierre DeBané, all of whom personally appealed Mr. Sampson's case to the Saudi Royal Family on my behalf. We are pleased with the cooperation of King Fahd and the Saudi government in the resolution of this matter, and I look forward to the building of further constructive ties between Canada and Saudi Arabia."

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PMO Press Office: (613) 957-5555