Ottawa: At least 63 Canadians were killed in a plane crash near Iran’s capital city of Tehran. They were part of the 176 people on board. No survivors are expected.
The Canadian death toll could change, according to François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs.
“As more information becomes available, including regarding dual citizens, this number could change,” he said in a statement issued yesterday.
Friends and relatives of Canadian citizens believed to be on board can contact Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre by calling 613-996-8885 or 1-800-387-3124, or by sending an email to sos@international.gc.ca. Canadian citizens in Iran requiring consular assistance should contact the Canadian Embassy in Ankara at +90 (312) 409 2700 or call Global Affairs Canada’s Emergency Watch and Response Centre at +1 613-996-8885.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, said yesterday: “This morning, I join Canadians across the country who are shocked and saddened to see reports that a plane crash outside of Tehran, Iran, has claimed the lives of 176 people, including 63 Canadians.
“On behalf of the Government of Canada, Sophie and I offer our deepest condolences to those who have lost family, friends, and loved ones in this tragedy. Our government will continue to work closely with its international partners to ensure that this crash is thoroughly investigated, and that Canadians’ questions are answered. Today, I assure all Canadians that their safety and security is our top priority. We also join with the other countries who are mourning the loss of citizens.
He said Minister Champagne has been in touch with the government of Ukraine, and is speaking to relevant authorities and to international partners. Minister Garneau is also working with officials from Transport Canada, and is reaching out to his international counterparts.
Minister Champagne said he was “deeply shocked and saddened…I would like to extend my deepest condolences to those who lost loved ones in this tragic event, including citizens of a number of other countries.
“The situation remains extremely fluid. I have been in touch with my Ukrainian counterpart, and will continue to speak to all relevant authorities. The Government of Canada is committed to working closely with international partners regarding any possible investigation. We will continue to keep Canadians informed as the situation evolves,” he said.
“The Embassy of Canada to Turkey in Ankara has consular responsibility for Iran as there are no resident Government of Canada offices in Iran. Canadian citizens in Iran requiring consular assistance should contact the Canadian embassy in Ankara at +90 312 409 2700,” he added
In Toronto, Premier Doug Ford said his “heart breaks for the families and loved ones of those who died. They are in our thoughts and prayers.
“I want to thank the first responders and Red Crescent workers who have been working tirelessly for hours to recover the bodies of the deceased.
“Our government and all citizens stand with the Iranian community here in Ontario and across Canada in this time of grief.”