OTTAWA, Canada, August 14, 2013 –Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird today issued the following statement:
“Canada is deeply concerned by reports overnight of deadly violence in Egypt. We urge all parties to refrain from violence and engage in a meaningful political dialogue for the good of all Egyptians.
“Our thoughts go out to the families and friends of those killed by today’s violence, and we wish a speedy recovery to the injured.
“Canada firmly believes that implementing a transparent democratic system that respects the voices of all Egyptians, including members of civil society and religious minorities, is the best way to restore calm and give all Egyptians a stake in the future stability and prosperity of their country.
“The two parties must immediately sit down together, reconcile their differences and work tirelessly to halt this deadly standoff.
“I urge all Egyptians to show restraint and resolve in the coming days.”