Statement by Foreign Affairs Minister on escalation of violence in Afrin, Syria

Statements

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February 1, 2018 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement on the security situation in Afrin, Syria:

“Canada is deeply concerned by the escalation of hostilities in northwest Syria, and is closely monitoring the situation, including its impact on civilians.

“Canada recognizes Turkey’s legitimate security concerns. However, we urge restraint and call for every possible effort to be made to protect civilians and fully respect international humanitarian law.

“Our focus must continue to be on defeating Daesh. This requires a collective and concerted effort with all our friends and allies in the region, whose roles and sacrifices in attaining this common objective we recognize and value immensely.”