Ottawa – The Embassy of Afghanistan in Canada expresses its condolences to the family of a Canadian soldier who was killed in a road accident in Southern Afghanistan on Thursday.

“We are sad to hear that Pte. Braun Scott Woodfield of Victoria, B.C. lost his life in a road accident while on duty in Southern Afghanistan,” said Afghanistan’s Ambassador, Omar Samad.

He added, “on behalf of my Government and the people of Afghanistan, I express our heartfelt sympathy to the family, colleagues and loved ones of Pte. Woodfield.”

The Afghan Ambassador also conveyed his best wishes for the quick recovery of four other Canadians soldiers who were injured when their military vehicle rolled over northeast of Kandahar.

“There are no indications thus far that foul-play or explosives may have caused this tragedy,” said Amb. Samad.

“Unfortunately, there are risks involved in such an important mission. But we are grateful for the peace-building efforts of Canadians - military or civilian - in my country, and we very much value the contributions and sacrifices that are made to stabilize and rebuild war-torn Afghanistan,” said Amb. Samad.

Embassy of Afghanistan- Canada

November 24, 2005