CANADIAN DIPLOMAT PUSHED OUT OF IRAN

The Honourable Maxime Bernier, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today made the following statement:

“Canada regrets the decision of the Government of Iran to order our ambassador to leave Tehran, which is entirely unjustifiable. We stand behind our ambassador, who has performed his diplomatic duties with professionalism and dedication. We will continue to monitor the well-being of the other embassy staff in Tehran.

“Canada and Iran have tried to come to an agreement on an exchange of ambassadors for some time. Unfortunately, we have as yet been unable to accept the candidates Tehran has submitted. We believe that the expulsion of our ambassador is an unfortunate and unjustified consequence of this situation.

“The Canadian Embassy in Iran will be headed by our chargé d'affaires who will represent and safeguard Canada’s interests. Both countries will continue to maintain embassies in the respective capitals and conduct normal operations.

“We strive to keep our lines of communication open. Canada’s approach to Iran will continue to be guided by our commitment to promote freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law, and by our regional and international interests. As always, Canada remains prepared to receive an Iranian ambassador provided a suitable candidate is presented.”