Statement from Rona Ambrose on the passing of Shimon Peres

September 27, 2016
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

OTTAWA, ON – Rona Ambrose, Leader of the Official Opposition and Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada, issued the following statement today on the passing of former Israeli President Shimon Peres.

“It is with profound sadness that the Conservative caucus and the Conservative Party of Canada express our condolences to the people of Israel at the passing of former president Shimon Peres.

“Few have accomplished more for the advancement of Israel and the Jewish people than Shimon Peres. His legacy spanned more than six decades in public service and as a political figure, including serving as both President and as Prime Minister of the State of Israel.  He was a man who was the architect of Israel’s robust defence strategy, and someone who also won the Nobel Peace Prize in an attempt to find peace with the Palestinian people.

“Israel today is a steadfast ally to the West and all those who cherish democracy and pluralism. Israel’s strength is due in no small part to Shimon Peres and his foresight in advocating for peace while ensuring the nation he loved had the means to protect itself and its citizens in a turbulent world.

“Shimon Peres’ relationship with Canada was strong and lasting.  In the 1950s, he visited Canada to secure assistance for the fledgling state.  This soon cemented the special relationship between Canada and Israel, and he paid tribute to Canada on his 2012 visit when he said Canada is “an extraordinary friend” and “never indifferent, never neutral”.

“Just as we mourn his passing, we express our gratitude for his historic accomplishments for the Jewish people and the State of Israel. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and all those whose lives were touched by this remarkable statesman.”