(No. 353 - November 20, 2009 - 5:30 p.m. EST) The Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today welcomed the resumption of the Darfur peace process with the launching of civil society consultations in Doha, Qatar.
“Canada welcomes the resumption of the Darfur peace process with the launch of Darfur civil society consultations organized by the African Union-United Nations Joint Chief Mediator for Darfur, Djibrill Ypènè Bassolé,” said Minister Cannon. “The consultations are an important step in advancing the Darfur peace talks.
“Through Canada’s presence at the consultations, we are showing our support for Mr. Bassolé in his efforts to achieve long-term peace and stability in Darfur. Canada also appreciates the support of the Government of Qatar to that end.
“Canada regrets that not all parties were willing to go to Doha to restart peace negotiations and hopes that those absent will join the negotiations. Canada supports the consultations, and hopes that concrete results for the peace process will come of them.”
In Sudan, Canada has taken a leadership role in helping achieve sustainable peace. Since 2006, Canada has contributed over $675 million in support of peace and humanitarian objectives in Sudan, including support for the Comprehensive Peace Agreement implementation and the Darfur peace process.
For more information on Canada’s engagement in Sudan, please consult Canada: Active in Sudan.
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Press Secretary
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Foreign Affairs Media Relations Office
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