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The Canada–Japan Inter-Parliamentary Group sends condolences on the death of Abe Shinzō, former Prime Minister of Japan

It was with great sadness that members of the Canada–Japan Inter-Parliamentary Group learned about the tragic and untimely death of former Japanese Prime Minister Abe Shinzō on 8 July 2022. On behalf of all members of the Canada–Japan Inter-Parliamentary Group, Senator Stanley Kutcher and Member of Parliament Terry Sheehan, Co-Chairs sent condolences to Etō Seishirō, President of the Japan-Canada Diet Friendship League and His Excellency Yamanouchi Kanji, Ambassador of Japan to Canada. Our thoughts are with former Prime Minister Abe’s family, members of the Diet and the Japanese people at this sad time.

As Japan’s leader, Prime Minister Abe promoted policies that strengthened relations between Canada and Japan. Canadians, including members of the Canada–Japan Inter-Parliamentary Group, appreciate the central role that Prime Minister Abe played in forging key multilateral initiatives that bind our two countries, including the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, and in promoting a vision for an Indo-Pacific region that is based on shared values, such as democracy and the rule of law.

The Canada–Japan Inter-Parliamentary Group is proud of the close friendship between Canada and Japan fostered by Prime Minister Abe, who will undoubtedly be viewed as one of the 21st century’s greatest leaders. Certainly, our two countries will continue to demonstrate to the world the benefits of international co-operation and partnership exemplified by Prime Minister Abe’s legacy of proactive diplomacy.

The Canada–Japan Inter-Parliamentary Group promotes exchanges between Japanese and Canadian parliamentarians, proposes initiatives likely to lead to a better mutual understanding of bilateral and multilateral matters, and works to develop co-operation between the two countries. More information can be found on the association’s website.

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For further information:
Grant McLaughlin, Association Secretary
Canada–Japan Inter-Parliamentary Group – 613-943-0288