January 4, 2009
No. 2
The Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement regarding the situation in Israel and the Gaza Strip:
“Canada is deeply concerned about the increase in hostilities between Israel and Hamas.
“We urge renewed international diplomatic efforts to achieve a sustainable and durable ceasefire, starting with the halting of all rocket attacks on Israel. Canada maintains that the rocket attacks are the cause of this crisis.
“Just as urgent diplomatic efforts are needed to bring about an end to the crisis, it is essential that the international community come together to address the humanitarian situation. This includes ensuring access to food, fuel and medical supplies.”
“Since hostilities began, I have spoken to a number of my counterparts in the region and around the world to stress the need to protect civilians and bring this current crisis to an end. Canada will remain in close contact with its international partners to reach these immediate objectives.”
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