Since Bush became president, my country, Canada is on less than friendly terms with the U.S.A. government....I believe many Americans (not the people in DU) believe we have let you down, by not joining the attack on Iraq....These words from President Clinton are very welcome, although I doubt they will ever be seen by most of your citizens....
In a Time magazine article about Canada-U.S. relations, Clinton took issue with President George W. Bush and other senior administration officials who criticized Chretien's unwillingness to commit Canadian troops to the war.
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"It was a low moment in our long and mostly happy coexistence.
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Clinton said the Bush administration failed to recognize Canada's contribution to Afghanistan, including "the brave soldiers who died there," in its criticism of Chretien's refusal to commit troops to Iraq without UN authorization.
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"Two thousand Canadian soldiers are serving in Afghanistan today," he wrote. "To denounce Canada when Canadians are fighting and dying in the war on terrorism is offensive to all who value our long friendship." (Actually, I believe there are more like 5,000 troops, but that's O.K.)
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He expressed gratitude Chretien committed $100 million to deliver lifesaving medicine to people living with AIDS in Africa and said he was confident prime minister-designate Paul Martin "will continue the path of leadership in the fight against HIV/AIDS."
http://www.canada.com/national/story.asp?id=922B61AF-AB63-497F-AA13-6B1EEA3DEBA4 P.S.....President Clinton has been up here several times since 9/11 on speaking engagements and always draws large, enthusiastic crowds....