20 October 2009
Ottawa, Ontario
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement on the safe release of Canadian journalist Maziar Bahari by the Government of Iran:
“After nearly four months in an Iranian prison, Canadian journalist Maziar Bahari is free. All Canadians are relieved that Mr. Bahari was able to join his pregnant wife in London as they await the birth of their first child.
“The Government of Canada had been steadfast in demanding Mr. Bahari’s release from his unjustified detention by Iranian authorities.
“We can only imagine what Mr. Bahari has been through during the past months and the anguish that his wife has experienced during this difficult period. Canada commends all journalists who risked their lives by reporting on the Iranian elections from within the country.
"While we rejoice today for Maziar Bahari’s homecoming, we must not forget about the countless others who remain unjustly imprisoned in Iran today. Canada continues to stand with the people of Iran in their struggle with the Iranian regime.
