"After consultations, the US and Canadian governments have decided to postpone President Bush's May 5 state visit to Ottawa," a Bush spokesman said in a statement.

"The postponement is due to the president's ongoing obligations to help the people of Iraq build a nation that is whole, free and at peace. President Bush and Prime Minister Chretien look forward to accomplishing these goals that both share."

Earlier Chretien's office announced Bush would postpone his scheduled May 5 visit to Ottawa because of the continuing war in Iraq.

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