OTTAWA — The Green Party of Canada is increasingly alarmed by Turkish military actions in north-east Syria. Earlier this week, Turkish forces launched a cross-border offensive on Kurdish-held areas of northern Syria with the stated intention of creating a so-called “safe zone”.
Since the start of this offensive, tens of thousands of civilians have fled their homes, and at least 11 civilians have died. Turkish military actions pose a major threat to regional security and could lead to major displacements of populations.
“We condemn unilateral military action by Turkey in Syria,” said Annamie Paul, international affairs critic for the Green Party. “This offensive not only imperils human life, but also risks unleashing a humanitarian disaster in north-east Syria.”
Whenever possible, dialogue should be the preferred option for the resolution of conflict. The Green Party supports the UN-led political process as the best option for achieving lasting peace in Syria.
“We support calls by the European Union for Turkey to end its military actions and to seek the resolution of its concerns through diplomatic and political channels. Turkey’s NATO allies, including the Government of Canada, must remind Turkey at every opportunity of its duty to ensure the protection of civilians in Syria and respect for their fundamental rights,” said Ms. Paul.
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