Canada dismayed by Myanmar’s Supreme Court ruling on Reuters journalists

April 23, 2019 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement on the ruling of Myanmar’s Supreme Court in the appeal of the convictions of two Reuters journalists in Myanmar:

“Canada is deeply dismayed by Myanmar’s Supreme Court decision to uphold the imprisonment of Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo. These journalists were detained and sentenced for investigating and exposing the atrocities committed by Myanmar’s military as part of the genocide carried out against the Rohingya people. They have been detained since December 2017 and were sentenced to seven years in prison in September 2018 on charges of breaking Myanmar’s Official Secrets Act.

“Canada will continue to use every opportunity to raise concerns regarding violations of freedom of expression, the essential role the media play in defending and advancing free speech and the rule of law.  

“Canada commends Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo for their courage and professional commitment to defend, expose and advance the truth. No journalist should ever fear retaliation, violence, imprisonment or being killed for carrying out the duties of his or her profession.

“Canada is hopeful that Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo can rejoin their families soon and continue their vital work as journalists.”