Former Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney passed away at the age of 84, as reported by Canadian media, citing a social media post from his daughter, Caroline Mulroney. Caroline Mulroney stated that her father died peacefully, surrounded by family.
“On behalf of my mother and our family, it is with great sadness we announce the passing of my father, The Right Honourable Brian Mulroney, Canada’s 18th Prime Minister,” Caroline Mulroney said in the post, adding that details of arrangements would be shared when available.
Mulroney served as Canada’s prime minister from 1984 through 1993, during which he notably signed the Canada-United States Free Trade Agreement with former US President Ronald Reagan in the late 1980s, a precursor to the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in 1994.
Brian Mulroney (Credits: Vanguard News)
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed his devastation at Mulroney’s death, stating, “Brian Mulroney loved Canada. I’m devastated to learn of his passing.
He never stopped working for Canadians, and he always sought to make this country an even better place to call home.” Trudeau also praised Mulroney’s generosity, tirelessness, and passion, acknowledging his role in building today’s modern, dynamic, and prosperous Canada.
Trudeau highlighted Mulroney’s work on environmental and humanitarian issues, including securing an air quality agreement with the United States to reduce acid rain, championing the first Canadian Environmental Protection Act, and creating several new national parks. Mulroney also stood up against apartheid in South Africa, exemplifying Canadian values.
After leaving office, Mulroney served on corporate boards and was chair of Quebecor Inc. and Forbes Global Business and Finance. He was also a senior partner at Montréal-based international law firm, Norton Rose Fulbright Canada.
“A globally respected and recognized leader, Mr. Mulroney was also awarded some of the highest recognitions from governments around the world,” the prime minister’s statement said, mentioning honors such as the Order of Canada, the Ordre National du Québec, and the Woodrow Wilson Award for Public Service.
