STATEMENT BY THE PRIME MINISTER

November 8, 2001
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Jean Chrétien expressed his deep sadness today at the news of the death of Malak Karsh :

"From the first moment he set foot in Canada, Malak Karsh developed a strong and passionate relationship with his adopted home; a relationship that lasted a lifetime and that shone through every breathtaking photograph he took of this land.

Everyone who has had the honour of meeting Malak Karsh will attest that he was not only a person of phenomenal talent, but a true gentleman and a kind soul. His death is a great loss to Canada as a whole, but particularly to the people of our national capital, where Canadians and tourists alike could often see him at work. As the Ottawa Tulip Festival he founded and so loved approaches its 50th anniversary, Aline and I want to pay tribute to this great artist who contributed so much to Canada. He and his unique vision will be sorely missed.

Aline joins me in offering, on behalf of all Canadians, our heartfelt condolences to Malak Karsh’s family and many friends. It is our sincere hope that they can find some solace in the knowledge that his art will continue to enlighten the lives of Canadians for many generations."

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PMO Press Office (613) 957-5555


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