Canada reiterates the need to establish a process of accountability in Sri Lanka

Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau while welcoming the international efforts to achieve peace and reconciliation in Sri Lanka has reiterated the need to establish a process of accountability that will ‘have the trust and the confidence of the victims of Sri Lanka’s war against Tamil Tiger terrorists.

“Canada welcomes international efforts underway to achieve long-term reconciliation and peace for all Sri Lankans, but we reiterate the need to establish a process of accountability that will have the trust and the confidence of the victims of this war,” the Canadian Prime Minister said in a statement issued to mark the anniversary of ‘Black July’.

Trudeau joining the Canadians of Tamil descent and members of the Tamil community to commemorate the 34th anniversary of ‘Black July’, said they must continue to work to heal the wounds of those who suffered during the war.

“As we pause to reflect on the dark days of the Sri Lankan Civil War, we must continue to work to heal the wounds of all those who suffered,” he said.

Between July 24 and 29, 1983, anti-Tamil pogroms were carried out in Colombo and other parts of Sri Lanka resulting in thousands of deaths and the displacement of countless victims.

The Premier said Canada’s cultural diversity is one of the greatest strengths and sources of pride.

“As we mark the 150th anniversary of Confederation, let us take the time to recognize the contributions of all who have made Canada their home regardless of their cultural, religious or linguistic background,” he said.

Prime Minister Trudeau on behalf of the Government of Canada, extended his deepest sympathy and support to “all those who have suffered immeasurable loss during the Sri Lankan Civil War.”