March 17, 2009
No. 70
The Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement regarding the situation in Madagascar:
“Canada is deeply troubled by the political crisis in Madagascar. Actions that are anti-democratic or that contravene the rule of law cannot be endorsed.
“This political crisis must be resolved by peaceful and democratic means. Canada supports the efforts of the international community in attempting to assist Madagascar in finding a peaceful way forward.
“Canada’s response to this situation supports our key foreign policy priorities of freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law.”
For more information on Canada-Madagascar relations, see www.canadainternational.gc.ca/tanzania-tanzanie/bilateral_relations_bilaterales/canada-madagascar.aspx?menu_id=77&menu=L.
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all non-essential travel to Madagascar. For more information, consult the travel report at www.voyage.gc.ca/countries_pays/report_rapport-eng.asp?id=168000.
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For further information, media representatives may contact:
Catherine Loubier
Director of Communications
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
