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Foreign Affairs Minister Maxime Bernier issued the following statement condemning the assassination of Pakistani Opposition Leader Benazir Bhutto:
"Canada condemns in the strongest terms this attack on the restoration of Pakistan's efforts to return to full democracy. Today's violence is especially heinous, in view of the upcoming elections on January 8, 2008. The anti-democratic intent of the perpetrators could not be more obvious.
"I urge the Government and people of Pakistan to continue to reject all forms of violence and to resist those who seek to destabilize their country. Stability in Pakistan is vital for democracy, regional stability and security."
"We extend our deepest condolences to the family of Benazir Bhutto, to the families of the other victims of today's attack, and to the Pakistani people. Our thoughts are with them at this difficult time."
