Statement by Ambassador Barak on John Baird's Retirement from Federal Politics:
After 20 years of service to the Canadian people, I wish John Baird all the best as he moves on from federal politics to pursue other opportunities.
As Foreign Minister, Mr. Baird has been a rare beacon of light at a very dark chapter in world history. His principled positions, guided by the values of the Canadian people, have served as a pillar of strength for all liberal democracies.
For the people of Israel, who live in the only liberal democracy in the Middle East, Mr. Baird's vocal support has been an empowering force against the rise of fundamentalism and tyranny on our borders. In Jewish tradition, the term mensch is reserved for a person of integrity who stands up against injustice and never wavers from his principles. I can think of no better term to describe the qualities that define Mr. Baird both as a man and as a politician.
Canada and Israel hold a bond a friendship that is based on shared values and mutual interests. Our deep and historic ties, stretching back well before the independence of Israel, are imbued with close people-to-people connections. From expanding economic ties to joint research initiatives and from cooperating on international development to shared security challenges, Canadians and Israelis are working together to help make the world a better place. Just last month, I had the pleasure of accompanying Mr. Baird on a very fruitful visit to Israel where we added even more elements to the Canada-Israel Strategic Partnership.
On behalf of the State of Israel, I would like to thank Mr. Baird for his contribution to our special friendship.
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