Minister Baird Statement on Situation in Syria

News Release

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Minister Baird Statement on Situation in Syria

**(No. 370 - December 9, 2011 - 11:00 p.m. ET)** Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird today issued the following statement:

“Canada is deeply concerned by reports indicating that Syrian security forces are encircling the city of Homs. Such actions are unacceptable and must stop immediately.

“We strongly condemn the continuing violence against civilians, and urge the Syrian authorities to stop their campaign of terror on the innocent, who are merely exercising their fundamental rights.

“The world is watching and the international community will judge the Assad regime accordingly. Those implicated in acts of aggression will be held accountable by the international community.

“Canada urges its citizens currently inSyria to leave now, while commercial means are still available.”