News Release

From the Prime Minister's Web Site (http://www.pm.gc.ca/)

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PM to meet world leaders in Paris to coordinate implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution on Libya

March 18, 2011
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced today that he will travel to Paris to meet with French President Nicolas Sarkozy, British Prime Minister David Cameron and other leaders and representatives to coordinate the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1973, which was adopted on March 17, 2011. The resolution authorizes the use of force to protect the civilian population and civilian populated areas in Libya and the enforcement of a no-fly zone over Libyan territory.

"Canada is actively contributing to international efforts to protect Libyan citizens from further harm and abuse at the hands of the Gaddafi regime," said Prime Minister Harper. "Canada, in cooperation with our allies and other members of the international community, worked to gain support for this resolution. We will now take the urgent action necessary to support it."

More specifically, participants at the meeting, which include leaders of the European Union, Arab League and African Union, will be discussing implementation of the no-fly zone and arms, travel and economic sanctions.

Since the crisis first began, Canada has taken strong and decisive actions against the regime. Working closely with allies, the Government has evacuated Canadian and allied citizens, put in place tough sanctions, and called on the Gaddafi regime to stop the bloodshed and immediately step down. The Government has also authorized the deployment of six CF-18 fighter jets to join HMCS Charlottetown in the region to join international efforts to fully implement Resolution 1973.

"Our Government is committed to helping protect Libyan citizens from further slaughter. It is a moral obligation and quite simply the right thing to do," added the Prime Minister. "We urge the Gaddafi regime to respect the will of the Libyan people, to comply with their obligations under international law, and to immediately cease all hostilities"

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The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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Media Advisory

From the Prime Minister's Web Site (http://www.pm.gc.ca/)

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Public events for March 18, 2011

March 18, 2011
Ottawa, Ontario

Public event for Prime Minister Stephen Harper for Friday, March 18th is:

OTTAWA

8:30 p.m. – Prime Minister Stephen Harper will depart Canada for Paris to attend a meeting on the situation in Libya.

Canada Reception Centre
Hangar 11
190 Convair Private
Ottawa, Ontario

*Photo opportunity only (cameras and photographers only)

NOTE:

• Media are required to present proper identification for accreditation.

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The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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Statement

From the Prime Minister's Web Site (http://www.pm.gc.ca/)

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Statement by the Prime Minister of Canada on the death of two volunteer firefighters in Listowel

March 18, 2011
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement on the death of volunteer firefighters Raymond Walter and Kenneth Rea in Listowel, Ontario:

"I was deeply saddened today to learn of the death of two volunteer firefighters who were killed in the line of duty fighting a fire in Listowel.

"On behalf of myself, Laureen and all Canadians, I would like to express my sincere condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of firefighters Raymond Walter and Kenneth Rea.

"These were remarkable individuals – heroes who volunteered to do life-threatening work to keep their communities safe.

"Tragedies like this are unfortunate reminders of the sacrifices that professional and volunteer firefighters make every day for the people of Canada.

"Through their caring and civic commitment Raymond and Kenneth made their communities and Canada a better place. They will be honoured and remembered."

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The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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Statement

From the Prime Minister's Web Site (http://www.pm.gc.ca/)

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Statement by the Prime Minister of Canada on the situation in Libya

March 18, 2011
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper made the following remarks on the situation in Libya:

"Good morning.

"Since the crisis in Libya first began, Canada has taken a strong and decisive position.

"Working closely with our allies, we have evacuated Canadian citizens, put in place tough sanctions, and called on the Gaddafi regime to stop the bloodshed and immediately step down.

"Despite these actions, the situation in Libya remains intolerable.

"Last night, the United Nations Security Council passed a resolution endorsing immediate action to protect Libyan citizens from the threat of further slaughter.

"Canada, in cooperation with our allies and other members of the international community, worked to gain support for this resolution.

"We will now take the urgent action necessary to support it.

"As a consequence, the Government has authorized the deployment of CF-18 fighter jets to join the HMCS Charlottetown in the region.

"If Colonel Gaddafi does not comply with this Security Council Resolution, Canadian Armed Forces working with other like-minded nations will enforce the resolution.

"We are encouraged by late-breaking news that, in response to the threat of military action, the Libyan regime has declared a ceasefire.

"However, for that threat to remain credible, adequate military forces must be in place.

"Our deployment will therefore proceed.

"I have spoken with the leaders of the Opposition parties to advise them of the Government's decision and to indicate we will consult Parliament next week.

"I also indicated we will seek Parliament's approval before extending the deployment beyond three months.

"I will just add this:

"One either believes in freedom, or one just says one believes in freedom.

"The Libyan people have shown by their sacrifice that they believe in it.

"Assisting them is a moral obligation upon those of us who profess this great ideal.

"Thank you."

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The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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Media Advisory

From the Prime Minister's Web Site (http://www.pm.gc.ca/)

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Public events for March 18, 2011

March 18, 2011
Ottawa, Ontario

Public events for Prime Minister Stephen Harper for Friday, March 18th are:

Ottawa, Ontario

9:30 a.m. – Prime Minister Stephen Harper will make a statement.

Foyer
Centre Block
House of Commons
Ottawa, Ontario

*Open to media

NOTES:

• Media must present proper identification for accreditation
  
• Media to arrive by 9:20 a.m.

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The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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