NEWS RELEASES
AXWORTHY URGES ISRAELI AND PALESTINIAN LEADERS TO RESTORE CALM
September 26, 1996 No. 173
AXWORTHY URGES ISRAELI AND PALESTINIAN LEADERS TO
RESTORE CALM
Foreign Affairs Minister Lloyd Axworthy today expressed Canada's deep concern over
the continued fighting in the West Bank and Gaza, which has claimed close to 60
lives and injured several hundred during the last three days. Mr. Axworthy plans
to meet with Israeli representatives later today in New York. Senior Foreign
Affairs officials conveyed the Government's views today to the Israeli Chargé
d'Affaires and the Palestinian Delegate General in Ottawa.
Mr. Axworthy stated: "The recent Israeli actions taken in Jerusalem, as well as
the decision to expand settlements, have been unhelpful to the Middle East peace
process."
"I urge Israeli and Palestinian leaders to take immediate steps to restore calm,"
said Mr. Axworthy. "We are very anxious that the situation not deteriorate
further." Mr. Axworthy also stressed the need for Israeli and Palestinian
officials to resume direct negotiations and to refrain from measures that might
lead to further violence.
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For further information, media representatives may contact:
Catherine Lappe
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
(613) 995-1851
Media Relations Office
Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
(613) 995-1874
This document is also available on the Department's Internet site:
http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca
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