OTTAWA — The Green Party of Canada is alarmed by reports from Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (Hong Kong SAR) of violent clashes between demonstrators and authorities, and associated deaths.
The Green Party supports the right to peaceful assembly and association and reminds Hong Kong SAR authorities of their obligation to respect the right to peaceful demonstration and expression, and their responsibility to work to de-escalate situations that could turn violent.
Dialogue between parties should be the first option in resolving conflict. “All parties involved in the Hong Kong SAR demonstrations must take steps to engage in peaceful, inclusive dialogue as the preferred means of resolving the current situation,” said Annamie Paul, International Affairs Critic for the Green Party.
About 300,000 Canadians live in Hong Kong SAR and the Green Party is concerned for their safety.
“Our government must ensure that the fundamental rights and freedoms of Canadian nationals living in Hong Kong SAR are protected,” said Green Party Interim Leader Jo-Ann Roberts. “The government should also be prepared to strengthen services to Canadian nationals residing in Hong Kong SAR should this become necessary.”
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For more information or to arrange an interview contact:
Rosie Emery
Press Secretary
613-562-4916x206
rosie.emery@greenparty.ca