FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(July 14, 2023, OTTAWA, ON) – Today, the Armenian National Committee of Canada issued a statement expressing its deep concerns regarding reports suggesting that the Government of Canada is considering lifting its long-standing arms embargo on Turkey.
“The Armenian National Committee of Canada (ANCC) expresses its profound concerns regarding reports suggesting that the Government of Canada is considering lifting its long-standing arms embargo on Turkey. These reports come as a shock to the Armenian-Canadian community and raise serious concerns about the government’s commitment to human rights, international security, and justice.
“Turkey, under the authoritarian leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, has consistently demonstrated a disregard for human rights, democratic values, and the rule of law. The possible lifting of the arms embargo will not only undermine Canada’s long-standing principles, but also disregard the ongoing aggression and human rights violations committed by Turkey against various populations, including the Armenian people.
“The ANCC calls on the Government of Canada to reconsider such a decision and to take a principled stance against the Turkish government’s belligerence. By lifting the arms embargo, Canada once again risks emboldening President Erdogan’s regime and perpetuating his dangerous agenda, both domestically and internationally. Such a decision will send troubling messages to the international community and will undermine Canada’s commitment to human rights, peace, and justice.
“The ANCC urges the Government of Canada to prioritize human rights, international security, and justice over short-term political considerations. We call on the government to listen to the concerns of the Armenian-Canadian community, civil society organizations, and human rights advocates who have tirelessly fought for justice and accountability.
“It is our hope that the Government of Canada will reconsider its decision and take a firm stance against the Turkish government’s aggression, thus affirming its commitment to the principles that define us Canadians.”
For media inquiries, please contact:
Sevag Belian – Executive Director
905 329-8526
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The ANCC is the largest and most influential Armenian-Canadian grassroots human rights organization. Working in coordination with a network of offices, chapters, and supporters throughout Canada, the ANCC actively advances the concerns of the Armenian-Canadian community on a broad range of issues and serves as a liaison between the community and elected officials, government agencies, and other institutions.
