Canadian PM concerned over Rohingya crisis

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has expressed concern over the attacks on Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar and urged the country's leadership to end the violence.

Trudeau made the observations during a telephonic call to Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

Trudeau stressed Suu Kyi's importance as a moral and political leader in resolving the crisis that has sent thousands of Rohingyas fleeing to Bangladesh, the Canadian Prime Minister Office said on Wednesday, Xinhua news agency reported.

"The Prime Minister also emphasized the urgent need for Myanmar's military and civilian leaders to take a strong stand in ending the violence, promoting the protection of civilians and promoting unimpeded access for the UN and international humanitarian actors," the office said.

Trudeau offered Canada's support to help build a peaceful and stable Myanmar that is respectful of the rights of all ethnic minorities.

The Canadian government has pledged 1 million Canadian dollars ($810,000) in humanitarian aid for Rakhine state, located on the western coast of Myanmar where the violence has erupted.

--IANS

pgh/mr