May 13, 2015 - Ottawa, Ontario - Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
The Honourable Rob Nicholson, P.C., Q.C., M.P. for Niagara Falls, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today made the following statement on military developments in South Sudan:
“Canada is gravely concerned over the ongoing military offensive in Unity State, South Sudan, and associated reports of serious human rights abuses. This is a clear and grave violation of the Agreement on Cessation of Hostilities, to which both parties in the South Sudan conflict have repeatedly committed.
“Tens of thousands of civilians have been displaced at a time when they need to be planting their crops, and security concerns mean that some 300,000 people have no access to emergency assistance and medical care.
“We call for an immediate end to all military activity and for safety guarantees for United Nations and non-governmental humanitarian workers. Reports of rampant and atrocious acts of sexual violence, including rape, and other human rights abuses are deeply concerning. Perpetrators must be held accountable.
“As and when peace talks resume in Addis Ababa, we call on the leaders of the people of South Sudan to take heed of the deepening suffering of their people and to make the necessary compromises and commitments to achieve a sustainable and just peace.”
Johanna Quinney
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
343-203-1851
johanna.quinney@international.gc.ca
Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
343-203-7700
media@international.gc.ca
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