Prime Minister's statement following remarks by President of Iran

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement following remarks made by the President of Iran:

"Canada vigorously condemns the recent call by Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad for the annihilation of Israel, and his continued denial of the holocaust.  The Canadian people reject the hatred that underlies such appalling and irresponsible statements.

"It is particularly disturbing that these remarks are being made at a time when Iran is in serious violation of its international obligations with respect to nuclear non-proliferation.

"Canada continues to believe that these outrageous comments by the President of Iran do not reflect the traditions and values of the Iranian people."