The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the death of Beji Caid Essebsi, President of Tunisia:

“Canada stands today with the people of Tunisia as they grieve the passing of their President, Beji Caid Essebsi.

“President Essebsi was the country’s first president to be elected by the Tunisian people, and was a key figure in Tunisia’s transition to democracy since 2011. Tunisia has made important political and economic reforms since that time, and Canada will continue to work with the Tunisian government to promote democracy, peace and security, respect for human rights, and gender equality.

“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I offer our deepest condolences to President Essebsi’s family and friends, and to the Government and people of Tunisia.”