March 4, 2008
No. 50
The Honourable Maxime Bernier, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement regarding the situation in Armenia:
"Canada has been following the recent events in Armenia with great concern and urges all of the parties involved to show restraint in their actions. It is the democratic right of people everywhere to gather and express their views so long as this is done in a peaceful manner.
"We urge the government of Armenia to respect these fundamental freedoms by lifting the state of emergency as soon as possible. Canada urges Armenians of all political affiliations to seek solutions to their current differences within the framework of their democratic institutions.
"In this regard, Canada welcomes the prompt mediation efforts initiated by the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe."
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