Canada condemns recent violence in Darfur
(No. 382 – December 11, 2009 – 5:45 p.m. EST) The Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement regarding the killing of five Rwandan peacekeepers and the assassination of a member of parliament in three separate attacks in Sudan’s Darfur region:
“Canada condemns in the strongest of terms the recent killing of five Rwandan peacekeepers serving with the African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur and the assassination of a member of parliament from Sudan’s ruling National Congress Party. I offer my sincere condolences to the families and friends of the victims.
“Violence of this nature, targeting peacekeepers and humanitarian workers and civilians, is unacceptable. Canada calls on the Government of Sudan to do its utmost to see that the perpetrators of these crimes are swiftly identified and brought to justice.
“Canada calls for the immediate cessation of hostilities and expresses strong support for the AU-UN Joint Chief Mediator for Darfur, Djibrill Ypènè Bassolé, who is working to help the parties resolve the conflict in Darfur and throughout Sudan.”
Canada continues to be one of the countries most highly engaged in Sudan, contributing over $674 million since 2006 to support efforts for peace, security and justice. For more information on Canada’s engagement in Sudan, please consult Canada: Active in Sudan.
For further information, media representatives may contact:
Natalie Sarafian
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
613-995-1851
Foreign Affairs Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
613-995-1874