MACKAY-IMPLICATIONS OF LEBANON SECURITY



The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, today issued the following statement on the situation in Lebanon:



“Canada remains concerned about the continuing violence in Lebanon. Our thoughts are with all those who may be affected by this conflict.



“We also want to ensure that Canadians are aware of the risks involved in travel to places, like Lebanon, where there are security concerns.



“This government puts the highest priority on the safety and security of Canadians, both in Canada and abroad. In the case of Lebanon, the government’s Travel Report has warned against non-essential travel to that country since September 2006. A warning against all travel to Tripoli and the immediate area was recently added, as was a recommendation that all Canadians in that area leave if it was safe to do so.



“Canadian travellers are responsible for their personal safety and should make travel decisions in light of the latest information available. The government’s Travel Reports provide up-to-date, reliable advice to help people make informed decisions on personal safety risks.



“Canadians who choose to travel to Lebanon should inform themselves of the latest information in the Travel Report.”



For more information, please visit http://www.voyage.gc.ca.