Ottawa – Statement by Omar Samad, Ambassador of Afghanistan to Canada:

“I express my deep sorrow for the losses sustained by NATO’s Canadian forces in Southern Afghanistan today.

On this very sad day for the families and friends of the Canadian victims of this act of terror, Afghans who oppose the fanatic killers, share in your grief.

The six brave Canadian soldiers and an Afghan interpreter, who lost their lives as a result of a roadside bomb in Kandahar Province, did not die in vain, nor did they die for the wrong mission.

Given the global security stakes involved, this strategic mission is not only about Afghanistan. The threats we face have no boundaries. Furthermore, allowing the oppressive Taliban affiliated with international terrorism to rule over the Afghan people once again is not a viable option.

For the past five years, we have stood together to bring lasting peace, security and hope for the millions of Afghans who are going through a difficult, yet promising, period in their history. Despite the tragic losses and challenges, Afghans, overwhelmingly, remain optimistic.”

Embassy of Afghanistan

July 4, 2007