Canada Strongly Condemns Shooting of Syrian Red Crescent First Aid Responder

News Release

------------

**July 11, 2012**

International Cooperation Minister, Julian Fantino, today issued the following statement:

"Canada deplores the violent attack that killed Khaled Khaffaji, a Syrian Arab Red Crescent staff member. Khaled Khaffaji was shot and killed in Deir Ezzor, Syria ― the second time in less than a month that a member of the Red Crescent has been killed while on duty. He was working from an ambulance clearly marked with the Red Crescent emblem.

Canada condemns such targeted acts of violence against humanitarian personnel and on medical facilities. We call on all parties to ensure the safe, unhindered access for humanitarian personnel who are providing urgent lifesaving assistance to the Syrian people.

Canada calls for an end to the violence so that humanitarian assistance can be provided to those in need. "

On behalf of all Canadians, I extend our most sincere condolences to the family and friends of Khaled Khaffaji and to his colleagues in the Syrian Arab Red Crescent, who continue to work tirelessly to provide neutral and impartial humanitarian aid to those affected by the ongoing violence in Syria."

To date, Canada has contributed $8.5 million in humanitarian assistance to support the needs of the Syrian people.