NEWS RELEASES
CANADA CALLS FOR RESTRAINT AND FORTHE RESUMPTION OF NEGOTIATIONSIN THE CHECHNYA CONFLICT
January 17, 1996 No. 7
CANADA CALLS FOR RESTRAINT AND FOR
THE RESUMPTION OF NEGOTIATIONS
IN THE CHECHNYA CONFLICT
Foreign Affairs Minister André Ouellet today expressed deep concern over the
situation in the southern Russian village of Pervomaiskoe, where Russian Interior
Ministry troops have been engaged in a three-day operation to resolve the hostage-taking crisis initiated last week by terrorists seeking independence for the
neighbouring republic of Chechnya.
"President Yeltsin faces a difficult situation, but further bloodshed can only
complicate the search for a durable solution to the conflict in Chechnya," Mr.
Ouellet said. "I urge all parties to exercise restraint and resume negotiations
toward a lasting political settlement."
Responding to reports of additional hostage takings by Chechen sympathizers,
including the hijacking of a passenger ferry on the Black Sea, Mr. Ouellet noted
that Canada condemns the use of violence to attain political ends, and called for
the immediate release of all hostages.
- 30 -
For further information, media representatives may contact:
Media Relations Office
Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
(613) 995-1874
|