"My
heart goes out to our Canadian comrades on this tragic day following the
shootings in Ottawa, as well as the hit-and-run attack in Quebec earlier this
week, both of which targeted Canadian Forces personnel. Our two militaries share a common bond,
forged in blood, that is dedicated to the defense of our common ideals. As Minister of Defence Rob Nicholson said
last month when he spoke at our ceremony commemorating 9/11, "our
partnership affords us both greater security than we could ever achieve
alone." Indeed, both of our nations
are safer because of the bond we share, demonstrated by our cooperation around
the world from the Middle East to Europe to right here at home with NORAD. We offer our sincerest condolences to the
people of Canada. We share their grief,
but also their determination not to be intimidated by these cowardly
acts."