August 28, 2008
No. 186
The Honourable David Emerson, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement in light of a deadly attack on an internally displaced persons' camp by Sudanese security forces:
"Canada deplores the attack on the internally displaced persons' camp, which resulted in a significant number of deaths and injuries. Respecting the civilian and humanitarian nature of these camps is of paramount importance. Canada urges all parties to the conflict to put an immediate stop to the violence, to respect human rights and international humanitarian law and, in particular, to ensure the protection of civilians, who are most vulnerable during armed conflicts.
"Canada urges the Sudanese government and the rebels to cease their hostilities and to continue with the negotiation process led by the United Nations and the African Union.
"Canada also reiterates its call to the Government of Sudan to facilitate the deployment of the African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur."
For information on Canada's contribution to establishing long-lasting peace in Sudan, please consult the following website: www.canada-sudan.gc.ca.
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For further information, media representatives may contact:
Lynn Meahan
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
613-995-1851
Foreign Affairs Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
613-995-1874
www.international.gc.ca/index.aspx
