(No. 164 - May 14, 2010 - 1:45 p.m. ET) The Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement expressing concern over the recent violence in Bangkok, Thailand:
“Canada is deeply concerned by the recent violence and loss of life in Bangkok. We urge all parties to observe restraint and to address political differences through peaceful, transparent and democratic means.
“I am saddened to learn that a Canadian television cameraman was injured. He was one of three journalists hurt on Friday during clashes in Bangkok. We are providing consular assistance to him.
“Due to security concerns, the Canadian Embassy is temporarily closed to the public. However, the Embassy is providing emergency consular services to Canadians in Thailand from a temporary location. Canadian citizens in Thailand requiring emergency consular assistance should call 001-800-156-220-0142 or 02-636-0540 or 613-996-8885 (collect calls accepted). An email can also be sent to sos@international.gc.ca. The Embassy will resume normal operations as the situation permits.
“We advise against non-essential travel to and within Bangkok due to the ongoing large-scale political demonstrations, which have been marked by violence, injury and death. A state of emergency remains in effect. The security situation is very volatile, with significant potential for further civil unrest, violent clashes and attacks. Canadians currently in Bangkok should avoid all non-essential movement, exercise extreme caution, follow the advice of local authorities, closely monitor local media and, if violence erupts, remain indoors.
“Canadians travelling to or residing in Thailand are encouraged to consult the Travel Report for Thailand regularly for updated information, and to register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive the latest advice from the Canadian embassy. We urge Canadians to subscribe to the department’s RSS feeds.”
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For further information, media representatives may contact:
Ève Cardinal
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
