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August 2, 2006 The Muslim Canadian Congress is once again urging the Harper government to adopt an independent Canadian stance on the current Mid East Crisis instead of echoing that of the U.S. administration. The statement said "Mr. Harper's Conservatives were elected by Canadian voters, not appointed by the White House." During the past three weeks, the Conservative government has taken unbalanced and irrational positions that reflect a blatant departure from Canada's historical role in the region as a middle power. The MCC notes with disappointment that at the special meeting of the Commons Foreign Affairs Committee in Ottawa on August 1, 2006, Foreign Affairs Minister Peter McKay once more rejected calls for an immediate ceasefire in the troubled region. He stated "We are dealing with Terrorists. I am not even sure who speaks for Hezbollah or whether they can even begin to keep their word" McKay's statement reflects uncertainty and is based largely on the assumption that the Hezbollah will not honour the ceasefire. The MCC would like to remind Mr. McKay that the Hezbollah has now authorized the Lebanese government to speak on its behalf. The Conservative government's policy should be based on reasonable evaluations, not assumptions. A ceasefire must be put in place. Regardless of how shaky its prospects, it will nonetheless prevent further destruction and the loss of civilian life on both sides while it lasts. Moreover, negotiations cannot genuinely thrive when bombs continue to destroy Lebanon and Katyushas continue to rain into Israel. A cessation of hostilities is critical before any lasting and genuine peace can be negotiated. The MCC is therefore urging the Conservative government to use its influence with President Bush to pressure Israel to agree to an immediate ceasefire and for all parties to honour it. It must reclaim its respect in the world community as a mediator and arbiter in the dispute rather than take sides. - 30 - For more information, please contact MCC's Communications Director Tarek Fatah at MuslimCongress@Canada.com |
Canada's Fallen
Soldiers MCC grieves the loss of our sons and daughters in Afghanistan, who died serving Canada in the line of duty. We offer our condolences to the families of the dead soldiers and hope to see all our troops back home safely.
Earthquake!
The MCC asks that you give till it hurts to organizations like the IDRF
Who speaks
Views and opinions on who, if anyone, is the real voice for Canada's Muslims
Sharia courts
The MCC campaign against religious tribunals for family law
Equal Marriages
The MCC takes a stand for justice, equality and human rights
War on Terror
The MCC condemns both terrorism and the "war on terror"
Palestine
The MCC does more than just talk the talk. Read about walking the walk in Hebron
Islam
Speaking for Muslims: A new group stirs the pot with its progressive ideas |
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