Canada Concerned over the Conviction and Sentencing of Joseph Attar and His Allegations of Torture in Egypt

News Release

April 21, 2007
No. 60
The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of the Atlantic
Canada Opportunities Agency, today made the following statement upon learning of the
sentencing of Joseph Attar in Egypt to 15 years in prison:
“While Canada acknowledges that the Government of Egypt granted consular access to
Mr. Attar, we remain concerned about a number of aspects in this case.
“The allegations of mistreatment and torture made by Mr. Attar during his trial are of
particular concern. We have raised the issue of torture repeatedly with Egyptian
authorities. We call upon Egypt to launch a prompt and impartial investigation into
Mr. Attar’s claims and to abide by the United Nations Convention Against Torture, to
which it became party in 1986.
“Under international human rights law, evidence obtained under torture is inadmissible
and cannot be the basis for a conviction. Canada calls on Egypt to ensure that
Mr. Attar’s right to have his conviction and sentence reviewed by a higher tribunal is
upheld.
“We request that Egypt address these concerns and ensure that Mr. Attar’s legal and
human rights are respected.”
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For further information, media representatives may contact:
Foreign Affairs Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
613-995-1874
http://www.international.gc.ca

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Canada Concerned over the Conviction and Sentencing of Joseph Attar and His Allegations of Torture in Egypt

News Release

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