Taken Questions Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC April 19, 2002 QUESTION TAKEN AT APRIL 19, 2002 DAILY PRESS BRIEFING Afghanistan: U.S. Expressions of CondolenceQuestion: What additional diplomatic contacts have we had to offer condolences for the Canadian soldiers who were killed in the friendly fire incident in Afghanistan? Answer: United States Ambassador to Canada, Paul Cellucci has personally extended the condolences of the American People to Deputy Prime Minister Manley, Foreign Minister Graham and Minister of Defense Eggleton. Ambassador Cellucci also released a public statement on Thursday expressing our deep regret for the deaths in this tragic accident. The Ambassador’s statement, and President Bush’s statement on April 18 are both posted on Embassy Ottawa's web site (www.usembassycanada.gov). The American flag at our Embassy in Ottawa has flown at half mast since Thursday morning in honor of those killed. An Embassy representative will participate in the ceremony that receives the remains of those tragically lost in Afganistan when they are returned to Canada. |