NEWS RELEASES

December 13, 2001 (2:35 p.m. EST) No. 163

STATEMENT BY MINISTER MANLEY ON THE MIDDLE EAST

John Manley, Minister of Foreign Affairs, expressed his deep concern today at the serious deterioration of the situation in the Middle East and his outrage at the further loss of life.

"Canadians are struck with horror at the latest series of fatal attacks on civilians and by the gravity of the situation," Mr. Manley said earlier today.

Canada has called on Chairman Yasser Arafat and all Palestinians to bring an end to the armed intifada and to dismantle terrorist networks. The Palestinian Authority must take strong, clear and immediate measures against all those who use violence. Action must be serious and sustained and those guilty of terrorist acts must be brought to justice.

Minister Manley expressed his condolences to the families of all the victims, both Israeli and Palestinian. Canada fully supports Israel's right to security and understands Israel's need to defend itself against terrorist attacks. Mr. Manley added that "the security of all the peoples of the region, including Israelis and Palestinians, can only be assured through negotiations." He also indicated that force, in the absence of political options, will not bring about the peaceful solution of the conflict that we all desire. In this respect, Canada calls on all parties to consider carefully the impact of their actions on the prospects for peace. Mr. Manley also indicated that Canada stands ready to support all international efforts, including those of the U.S., to bring about a resolution of the conflict.

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