NEWS RELEASES
May 13, 2005 (11:00 p.m. EST)
No. 84
CANADIAN ASSISTANCE TO THE AFRICAN UNION MISSION IN
SUDAN
Minister Pettigrew confirmed today that Canada remains in close and constant contact
with the African Union (AU) as well as with the Government of Sudan with respect to
our engagement in support of AU efforts in Darfur.
He recalled that Prime Minister Martin spoke with President Bashir of Sudan earlier in
the week to confirm Canada’s intention to provide additional support. This conversation
followed recent visits by the Prime Minister’s Personal Representative for Africa and
now Head of the Special Advisory Team for Darfur, Ambassador Robert Fowler, as well
by the Canadian Chief of Defence Staff, General Rick Hillier and Senator Mobina
Jaffer.
Minister Pettigrew reiterated that all Canadian actions in support of African Union
Mission in Sudan are undertaken in consultation with the African Union, in accordance
with the Status of Mission Agreement (SOMA) in place between the AU and the
Government of Sudan. He also noted that Canada has already provided helicopters
and essential equipment, as well as Canadian Forces technical assistance to the AU
mission in Sudan, with the knowledge and support of the Government of Sudan.
The additional support the Prime Minister announced on May 12 is consistent with the
assistance Canada is already providing to the African Union, and responds directly to
the needs that have been identified by the AU in conjunction with the United Nations
and other key donors.
“We look forward to continued close cooperation with the Government of Sudan in
helping to address the humanitarian and security situation in Darfur,” stated
Minister Pettigrew. “This consultation will continue as Canada’s plans are developed
and implemented.”
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For further information, media representatives may contact:
Sébastien Théberge
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
(613) 995-1851
Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs Canada
(613) 995-1874
http://www.international.gc.ca
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