Bill Graham, former Canadian defence and foreign affairs minister, has died at the age of 83.News of the former interim Liberal leader’s death was shared by multiple senior Liberals, cabinet ministers, current and former Canadian politicians as well as members of the defence and security community on social media on Monday afternoon.Former Liberal MP John English told The Canadian Press that Graham died Sunday, according to a member of his family who shared the news with him earlier today.Foreign Minister Melanie Joly tweeted that Graham “paved the way for better foreign policy, dialogue and diplomacy.”“Canada and Canadians around the world are better because of Bill’s tireless work,” she wrote. “My heart is with his family during this time.”The news of Bill Graham’s passing in heartbreaking.
Bill paved the way for better foreign policy, dialogue and diplomacy. Canada and Canadians around the world are better because of Bill’s tireless work.
My heart is with his family during this time.— Mélanie Joly (@melaniejoly) August 8, 2022Defence Minister Anita Anand called Graham an “important statesman” who made “incredible” contributions to the country, while former Conservative leader Erin O’Toole praised the “great passion” he said Graham showed for Canada’s veterans and military members after leaving office.The world has lost an important statesman.
I am saddened to learn that Bill Graham has passed away. Bill was a great Canadian who made incredible contributions to public life.