May 23, 2015 - Ottawa, Ontario - Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
The Honourable Rob Nicholson, P.C., Q.C., M.P. for Niagara Falls, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement condemning the suicide bombing at a Shi’ite mosque in Saudi Arabia:
"I was deeply disturbed by today’s terrorist attack against a Shi’ite place of worship in Saudi Arabia’s eastern province of Qatif, which claimed the lives of at least 21 people and left more than 90 injured.
"On behalf of all Canadians, I offer my condolences to the families and friends of those killed in this attack and wish a speedy recovery to the injured.
"Canada strongly condemns all acts of terrorism. To attack a congregation assembling for peaceful worship is a shocking and cowardly act and an attack on religious freedom. All communities have the right to practise their beliefs in peace and security, free from violent attack or persecution. We support all efforts by the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to pursue and prosecute the perpetrators of this heinous act.
"The so-called Islamic State of Iraq and Syria [ISIS] has claimed responsibility for the attack, which underscores the grave terrorist threat posed by ISIS. We will continue to stand beside Saudi Arabia and other coalition partners to end ISIS’s campaign of violence and brutality. Canada supports and encourages Saudi Arabia’s efforts to combat terrorism in the region. We value the support and cooperation we have with Saudi Arabia in addressing the many challenges and threats facing the Middle East."
Johanna Quinney
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
343-203-1851
johanna.quinney@international.gc.ca
Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
343-203-7700
media@international.gc.ca
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