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November 8, 2006 (5:00 p.m. EST)
No. 128
STATEMENT BY MINISTER MACKAY REGARDING RECENT ESCALATION OF VIOLENCE IN GAZA
The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, today issued the following statement in response to the civilians deaths in the Gaza Strip:
“Canada is concerned by the escalation of violence in the Gaza Strip and the civilian casualties resulting from the latest Israeli military operation. We offer our heartfelt sympathies to the victims and their families. We urge all sides to act with restraint and to take all measures possible to protect civilians and reduce tensions.
“The Palestinian Authority must take concrete measures to eliminate attacks against Israel. The statement by a leading Hamas official encouraging attacks against Israel is disturbing, and once again demonstrates the incompatibility of terrorism and democratic principles.
“We also understand and recognize Israel's right to protect its citizens. However, Israel must assume its responsibility to exercise the utmost caution to prevent civilian casualties. We welcome Israel's decision to investigate the shelling.”
For further information, media representatives may contact:
Foreign Affairs Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
(613) 995-1874
http://www.internat ional.gc. ca
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November 10, 2006 (7:45 EST)
No. 132
CANADA CONDEMNS THE KILLING OF CIVILIANS IN SRI LANKA
The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, today condemned the shelling of civilians in a camp for internally displaced persons near the town of Vakarai in eastern Sri Lanka on November 8, 2006.
“This incident demonstrates once again the heavy price paid by civilians caught in this long-standing conflict,” said Minister MacKay. “Canada urges both sides to immediately cease hostilities and return to negotiations.”
The Government of Canada continues to believe that there can be no military solution to this lengthy conflict. The targeting of non-combatants is never acceptable and is a clear violation of international humanitarian law. Canada calls on all parties to the conflict in Sri Lanka to strictly adhere to their obligations under international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians and the facilitation of safe and unhindered access for humanitarian agencies to reach civilians in need.
For further information, media representatives may contact:
Foreign Affairs Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
613-995-1874
http://www.internat ional.gc. ca
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