Prime Minister pays tribute to the late François Mitterrand

"France has lost a great leader. Europe and the world have lost a voice of understanding and reconciliation. Canada has lost a good friend.

The public career of François Mitterrand spanned five decades. He influenced the life of his country and continent to a degree that very few public figures do. And he was always true to his values of reconciliation and progressive, constructive government.

He will be remembered around the world for many things: his key role in advancing European unity, his tireless efforts for peace in trouble spots such as Bosnia, and, no less impressive, the considerable courage and serenity he displayed during his long and painful final illness.

To the family of François Mitterrand, and to the people of France, on behalf of all Canadians, I extend the most profound sympathies."

PMO Press Office: (613) 957-5555