Statement

From the Prime Minister's Web Site (http://www.pm.gc.ca/)

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STATEMENT BY PRIME MINISTER STEPHEN HARPER

May 26, 2008
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement:

"Earlier this evening, I accepted the resignation of Maxime Bernier as Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Last night, Maxime Bernier became aware that he had left classified government documents at a private residence earlier this spring. I became aware of this security breach late this afternoon.

The documents in question have been returned to the Government of Canada and Mr. Bernier deeply regrets this error.

I have asked Minister David Emerson to take on additional duties as Minister of Foreign Affairs on an interim basis. I have also asked Minister Josée Verner to take on additional duties for La Francophonie."

A copy of Mr. Bernier's letter of resignation is attached.




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The Right Honourable Stephen Harper
Prime Minister
Room 313-S, Centre Block
Ottawa, Ontario
K1A 0A6


Prime Minister,

This is to inform you that I am resigning my post as Minister of Foreign Affairs, effective immediately.

I informed you late this afternoon that last night I became aware that I had left behind classified government documents at a private residence.

Prime Minister, the security breach that occurred was my fault and my fault alone and I take full responsibility for my actions.
I have asked the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade to conduct a thorough review of the situation.

Thank you for the trust you have shown in me. I will do everything I can to serve the government well in my capacity as Member of Parliament.

Yours truly,


Maxime Bernier

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The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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News Release

From the Prime Minister's Web Site (http://www.pm.gc.ca/)

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PRIME MINISTER HARPER AND UKRAINE PRESIDENT VICTOR YUSHCHENKO HAIL STRONG CANADA-UKRAINE RELATIONS

May 26, 2008
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today met with Ukraine President Victor Yushchenko as the latter began a three day official visit to Canada. After their meeting, the President delivered an historic address to a joint session of Parliament.

"I wish to thank President Yushchenko for his informative and inspiring address and also for his warm and candid discussion during our meetings," Prime Minister Harper said. "The President's visit provides the opportunity to renew and strengthen the deep bonds of friendship between Canada and Ukraine."

The two leaders discussed a range of bilateral and international issues, including:

the further development of political and commercial ties between the two nations;

Ukraine's future in NATO and Canada's firm support for her bid for a Membership Action Plan;

and cooperation in the UN Mission in Afghanistan.

Prime Minister Harper added that Ukraine can expect Canada's full support as it continues its post-Communist evolution into a free and democratic nation.

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The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
[Note: You are receiving this e-mail for information only, and because you have subscribed to our distribution list. To modify your subscription or to have your name removed from the list, go to: (http://www.pm.gc.ca/eng/subscribe.asp?login)]