August 12, 2006
No. 93
The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of the Atlantic
Canada Opportunities Agency, issued the following statement regarding the United
Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolution adopted yesterday on the situation in the
Middle East.
“Canada continues to support all constructive efforts aimed at ending the current
conflict in Lebanon and Israel, restoring Lebanese sovereignty in its entire territory and
bringing stability to the region. In this regard, we welcome yesterday’s UNSC
Resolution, and see its unanimous adoption as the most important political
development since the beginning of the conflict.
“This Resolution calls for a full cessation of hostilities based upon, in particular, the
immediate end by Hezbollah of all attacks and Israel’s cessation of all offensive military
operations. It also builds on Lebanon’s welcomed commitment to deploy 15,000 troops
to southern Lebanon in cooperation with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon
(UNIFIL) as Israel progressively withdraws.
“Canada calls on all parties to accept the principles outlined by the UNSC without delay,
including, among other things, its provisions regarding other relevant UNSC resolutions,
such as 1559 and the supply of arms to Hezbollah. The overriding objective now must
be to implement this new text on the ground. Canada expects that it will pave the way
for a permanent ceasefire, respect for the Blue Line and a long-term solution to the
conflict, which will, among other things, facilitate relief efforts to those in need and the
early and safe return of displaced civilians so they can begin to rebuild their lives.
“Canada also calls on all parties to respect their obligations under international
humanitarian law. Canada remains deeply concerned by the humanitarian situation in
Lebanon and Israel, and underscores the importance of safe and unhindered access
for humanitarian aid to be provided to affected civilians. Canada will continue to support
the work of humanitarian agencies on the ground.”
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