February 17, 2005 (3:10 p.m. EST)
No. 33

MINISTER PETTIGREW EXPRESSES CONCERN
OVER SITUATION IN NEPAL

Foreign Affairs Minister Pierre Pettigrew today issued the following statement regarding the political and human rights situation in Nepal:

“Canada is very concerned about recent developments in Nepal, including the dismissal of the government and the assumption of executive power by the King of Nepal. We are deeply troubled by the deteriorating human rights and humanitarian situation in Nepal, and by the impact the armed conflict is having on civilian populations.

“The Government of Nepal has the responsibility to respect its international human rights obligations. We urge the Government of Nepal to end arbitrary arrests and restore freedom of the media and freedom of expression. We also call on the Nepalese government to take steps to protect political leaders, human rights defenders and others committed to promoting and protecting the rights of Nepalese citizens. The work of these individuals and organizations is crucial to Nepal’s efforts to establish democracy.

“Canada strongly supports Nepal’s National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and urges the Government of Nepal and the insurgents to sign the Human Rights Accord, which would allow the NHRC full access to carry out its mandate. We further urge the Nepalese government to ensure the prompt implementation of its agreement to work with the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.

“We recall the responsibility of all parties to the conflict to respect international humanitarian law and to ensure the protection of civilians. We also call on all parties to facilitate the access of humanitarian organizations to those in need of assistance. Canada encourages efforts by all parties toward a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.”

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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