FORMER PRIME MINISTER JOHN
TURNER TO ATTEND THE COMMEMORATION CEREMONY FOR YITZHAK RABIN ON
BEHALF OF PRIME MINISTER MARTIN
Prime Minister Paul Martin
today announced that former Prime Minister John Turner will attend a
ceremony commemorating the 10th anniversary of the assassination of former
Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin.
"A decade ago, Israelis were deprived of a visionary and courageous
man who was an inspiration to many," said Prime Minister Martin.
"His message of peace and hope is as important and resonant now as it
was 10 years ago. We encourage Israel, the Palestinian Authority, and the
international community to honour Mr. Rabin's legacy through a
forward-looking and meaningful engagement that places the voices of
moderation on both sides of the issue at the forefront. Canada will
continue to work with both sides for a sustainable peace that gives
dignity to all parties."
On November 14, 2005, Canada will join Israel and the world community in
remembering Mr. Rabin for his role in bringing peace to the Middle East.
In 1975, he concluded a peace agreement with Egypt; in 1993 he signed an
agreement with the late Palestinian Authority President Yasser Arafat; and
in 1994 he established a peace treaty with Jordan and won the Nobel Peace
Prize for his pursuit of peace.
The Government of Canada continues to be an active and engaged partner in
the region. In September, the Prime Minister pledged $24.5 million to the
Palestinian Authority for reform and institution building, bringing new
support this year for the Palestinian Authority and the Middle East peace
process to $36.7 million. Canada also continues to fund projects that
encourage dialogue by both sides such as the Talk Peace-Make Peace
initiative which brings young Israeli and Palestinian political activists
together to share their views.
While in Israel, Mr. Turner will convey Canada's determination to ensure
that Mr. Rabin's dream of peace in the Middle East is achieved.
