March 16, 2008
No. 58
The Honourable Maxime Bernier, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement regarding reports of ongoing turmoil in Tibet:
"The Government of Canada is alarmed at the deteriorating situation, including increasing reports of violence. We have expressed concern to the Chinese ambassador and through our embassy in Beijing to the Chinese government.
"We urge restraint. I have called on the Government of China to respect the right of Tibetans to protest peacefully and to take steps to improve the human rights situation in Tibet."
Canada is working to obtain further information, through its embassy in Beijing, on the current situation in Lhasa and the status of Canadians in the affected area.
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada has issued an official travel warning for Canadians to avoid all non-essential travel to the region.
- 30 -
For further information, media representatives may contact:
Foreign Affairs Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
613-995-1874
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada (DFAIT)
