Mr. Speaker, the Armenian people were oppressed during centuries. They were the victim of genocide early in this century and it was only recently that they gained freedom and built a country.
Just a few years ago Armenia was hit by a terrible earthquake. Yesterday it was struck by another calamity. The Prime Minister of Armenia and several parliamentarians were killed while carrying out their parliamentary duties.
The Bloc Quebecois offers its most sincere condolences to the families of the Armenian prime minister and his colleagues, and hopes that they will find the courage to overcome this terrible ordeal. We also share the sadness of the Armenian people following this tragedy, which will mark their history.
The Bloc Quebecois also wants to express its dismay at such brutal acts, which have no place in a democracy. We all remember that a similar event occurred in Quebec's national assembly about 15 years ago.
Now that the hostages have been released, we hope that the murderers will be brought to justice and that democracy will prevail as quickly as possible in that country, for the benefit of all Armenians.