The Honourable Stéphane Dion, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of International Development and La Francophonie, today issued the following statement:

“Canada deplores the flawed electoral process that led to Denis Sassou Nguesso’s inauguration today as president of the Republic of Congo, including a number of arbitrary arrests, imposed restrictions on telecommunications and free movement, and attempts to intimidate the media.

“Canada is concerned by reports of post-election violence, and we call on all parties to exercise restraint and to strive for the peaceful settlement of political tensions.

“In accordance with Canada and Congo’s joint commitments in the Francophonie, the strengthening of democratic institutions is essential to ensure inclusive governance, peaceful pluralism and macroeconomic growth, which will benefit the people of Congo.”