News Release – Immigration Minister Jason Kenney pays respects to victims of terrorist attacks in Mumbai; stands in full solidarity with victims of terrorism

Mumbai, January 17, 2009 — Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney expressed his condolences to the Governor and people of Maharasthra, the Indian state which experienced the horror of terrorism last November.

“Since arriving in Mumbai, the city and its resilience have touched me deeply,” said Minister Kenney. “I am very pleased to have extended Canada’s condolences to the people of Mumbai. The city has been so welcoming. It is simply magnificent and thriving.”

During his visit to Mumbai, Minister Kenney visited the Blue Synagogue where he gave a speech to the Jewish community condemning terrorism. The Minister saw first-hand some of the destruction caused during the November terrorist attacks as he toured the Chabad House in southern Mumbai, where entire floors have been destroyed by grenades and gunfire.

“I have seen with my own eyes the incredible resilience of the people of Mumbai,” said Minister Kenney. “On that terrible day, India’s vibrant democracy and diversity were brutally assaulted, but the city’s many communities – Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Jews and Christians – are resolute in their defiance of these acts of terror,” continued Minister Kenney. “As we share in your grief, Canadians stand in solidarity with the victims of the Mumbai attacks and all the people of India in denouncing terrorism, and committed to seeing the terrorists brought to justice.”

While at the Taj Hotel, whose employees helped evacuate and guide people to safety during the attacks, the Minister signed the book of condolences on behalf of the Government of Canada.

Members of the media and cultural communities interested in photos from the trip should visit the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website at www.cic.gc.ca/english/department/media/photos/2009/index.asp.

For further information (media only), please contact:

Media Relations Unit
Communications Branch
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
CIC-Media-Relations@cic.gc.ca