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Canada pm blames western greed Original Source Link: (May no longer be active)
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Sep. 12, 02:23 EDT
9/11 comments misinterpreted, PM says
Chretien decried Western 'greed' in interview with CBC
OTTAWA (CP) — News reports suggesting Jean Chrétien blamed wealthy Western states — including the United States — for some of the anger that triggered last year's terrorists attacks misinterpreted his remarks, the prime minister's office said today.
In a CBC interview broadcast Wednesday, the first anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks on the U.S., Chrétien linked the attacks to perceived western greed and arrogance.
"You cannot exercise your powers to the point of humiliation for the others," Chrétien told interviewer Peter Mansbridge.
"And that is what the western world - not only the Americans, the western world - has to realize. Because they are human beings, too."
Some interpreted those comments as suggesting the U.S. was to blame for the attacks.
But in a statement today, the prime minister's office said that would be a "gross misconstruction" of his remarks.
Aides to Chrétien pointed out that, in recent years, he has become an anti-poverty advocate, calling on the Group of Seven richest industrialized countries to do more to help the poorest nations of the world.
The comments were made in that context, they said.
But reaction was quick and angry to media reports that suggested Chrétien was blaming the U.S. for Sept. 11.
Some radio talk show hosts accused the prime minister of disrespect towards the victims of the terrorist attacks.
Stephen Harper, Canadian Alliance leader, demanded an apology for the U.S. and for the families of the Canadian victims of the attacks.
"Chrétien's comments, particularly coming on the anniversary of 9/11, blaming the victim, are shameful," Harper said.
In Wednesday's interview, Chrétien elaborated on his concerns about the growing divide between rich and poor — and the possible repercussions.
"There are long-term consequences if you don't look hard at the reality in 10 or 20 or 30 years from now. And I do think that the western world is getting too rich in relation to the poor world," Chrétien said.
"And necessarily, we look upon us being arrogant, self-satisfied, greedy and with no limits. And the 11th of September is an occasion for me to realize it even more."
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