December 9, 2014 - Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird today issued the following statement as voters again go to the polls in state elections across Jammu and Kashmir:
“Canada condemns the latest attack, which claimed the lives of 11 Indian security personnel and two civilians, in Jammu and Kashmir on December 5, 2014. On behalf of all Canadians, I offer my sincere condolences to the families and friends of those affected by this heinous attack.
“We commend the people of Jammu and Kashmir for exercising their fundamental democratic right to vote and for working toward building a stable and prosperous region for future generations. The high voter turnout witnessed so far clearly demonstrates that the people of Jammu and Kashmir will not be intimidated by attacks or threats of violence.
“Canada continues to stand with India in its fight against terrorism and violent extremism and encourages India and Pakistan to engage in meaningful dialogue.”
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