Minister attended counter-terrorism conference and unity march with world leaders
PARIS, FRANCE, January 11, 2015 – Today, the Honourable Steven Blaney, Canada’s Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, released a statement following an international meeting on the issue of terrorism, in Paris:
“The horrific events of this week have saddened and shocked the entire world. The people of France came under attack in an attempt to undermine a core value–one which all democracies hold dear–our freedom of expression. These terrorists have declared war against all countries and people who believe in peace, freedom, and democracy. But we will not be intimidated. Instead, we are more resolved than ever to unite in the collective fight against global terrorism.
This weekend, I met with my counterparts to discuss important issues relating to our common struggle against violent extremism. We have all seen over the past months that domestic acts of terror are a very real threat, one which we all must be prepared to counter rigorously. That is why we have resolved to continue working together to modernize information sharing on terror threats.
Canada and its allies face an increasingly complex national security threat posed by a brutal and violent international jihadist movement. We must adapt to this evolving threat environment. Our Government is moving quickly to ensure our security and law enforcement agencies have the tools they need to prevent, detect, deny and respond to acts of terrorism, in order to keep Canadians safe. Our Government’s upcoming national security legislation will be an important step forward in our country’s counter-terrorism capabilities.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims’ families and all the people of France. Canada stands beside them in these very troubling times.”
During his visit, Minister Blaney met with his counterpart, French Interior Minister Bernard Cazeneuve to discuss the important shared priorities of diminishing the global terror threat and upholding our shared values of freedom of expression and freedom of the press. Minister Blaney also joined leaders from around the world, and over three million French citizens, in a unity march.
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Information:
Jean Christophe de le Rue
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness
Jean-Christophe.DeLeRue@ps-sp.gc.ca
(613) 797-0671
Media Relations
Public Safety Canada
613-991-0657
media@ps-sp.gc.ca
