Statement by the Prime Minister on the ninth anniversary of the end of the war in Sri Lanka

OTTAWA, May 18, 2018 /CNW/ - The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the ninth anniversary of the end of the war in Sri Lanka:

"Today, we mark the ninth anniversary of the end of the war in Sri Lanka. The war ? which lasted over 26 years ? resulted in immeasurable injuries, loss of life, and displacement. The wounds of this war linger as the survivors seek answers for their loss, including family members and loved ones who have disappeared.

"Over the past nine years, I have met many Tamil-Canadians personally affected by the war. Their stories are a solemn reminder of the need to attain lasting peace and true reconciliation.

"I reiterate my call to the Government of Sri Lanka to establish a process of accountability that has the trust and confidence of the survivors. Canada offers its full support to the Government of Sri Lanka and those working to ensure that efforts towards reconciliation, non-recurrence, peace, and justice on the island are realized, and that international and domestic commitments on accountability, transitional justice, and ending impunity are met.

"On this anniversary, I extend my deepest sympathy to Canadians of Tamil descent, and all victims of the armed conflict and their families. I also invite all Canadians to take time to recognize the important contributions that Tamil-Canadians make to our country and the adversity they have overcome."

This document is also available at http://pm.gc.ca  

SOURCE Prime Minister's Office