Canada / Baird Concerned by Violence in Bamako

Canada / Baird Concerned by Violence in Bamako

OTTAWA, Canada, May 22, 2012/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird today issued the following statement.

“I am deeply concerned by the violence that occurred in Bamako, Mali, today, especially the attack on Interim President Diacounda Traoré.

“It is crucial that calm and political stability return to Mali so that the interim government and Mali's regional and international partners can tackle the grave problems afflicting the country.

“I am particularly troubled by the humanitarian situation in the north, especially in Timbuktu, where water is scarce and which is still under the control of rebels and terrorist groups.

“Now is the time for all Malians to unite and rally behind the transitional government for the good of the country.

“Canada stands ready to support the Economic Community of West African States in its ongoing efforts to bring peace and stability to Mali.”