"Like all Canadians, I was deeply saddened and very concerned to hear this terrible news. Obviously our reactions have been heightened in the context of the events of September 11. In this regard, I am relieved by initial indications from American authorities that the plane was not the subject of a terrorist attack.

As at all times of such immense disaster, our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the hundreds of people who have been lost. Aline joins me in extending our sincerest condolences and our hope that they will be sustained in these difficult hours by the love and comfort of family and friends.

We are mindful also of the understandable anxiety that this crash has provoked among the people of New York City and, indeed, all the people of the United States. To President Bush and all Americans, I offer the deepest sympathies and the complete solidarity of all Canadians."