Baird Condemns Renewed Violence in Syria

News Release

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**June 6, 2012 -** Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird issued the following statement in response to reports of renewed violence in Hama, Syria:

“I am deeply disturbed by media reports of attacks in the province of Hama that have killed dozens of people, including many women and children.

“These violent acts show a callous disregard for human life reminiscent of the massacre in Houla. This clearly demonstrates the downward spiral of violence in Syria that is resulting from the ruthless repression of the Syrian people by the Assad regime. Those who perpetrated these repugnant, savage acts must be held to account.

“The international community must act swiftly and decisively to ensure that Syria adheres to Joint Special Envoy Kofi Annan’s six-point plan, or move to implement other diplomatic solutions to the crisis. We urge the UN Security Council to adopt tough, binding sanctions against Assad.

“It is critical that all parties respect the ceasefire, cooperate with the UN observers, and support the efforts of Kofi Annan to resolve the crisis.

“We continue to work with our international partners to isolate the Assad regime and support the hopes of the Syrian people for a better, brighter future.”