G8 stands with Russia in fight against terrorism

TORONTO - Expressing support for Russia in its fight against terrorism, G8 nations Monday condemned the twin suicide attacks in Moscow that claimed 38 lives in packed subway stations.

Speaking as its chairman of G8 foreign ministers, Canadian Foreign Minister Lawrence Cannon said: “G8 foreign ministers today strongly condemned the cowardly terrorist attacks on the Moscow subway that took place earlier this morning, and which have killed numerous innocent civilians and injured dozens more.”

Cannon, who was hosting the Arctic summit of foreign ministers of Russia, Norway, the US and Denmark at Gatineau near Ottawa Monday, said, “Ministers expressed their deepest sympathy to all who have been injured or bereaved by these attacks, and called for the prosecution of all those responsible.

“They vowed that they would continue to collaborate to thwart and constrain terrorists, and to work for a world that is safe for all, based on the principles of democracy, and respect for the rule of law and for human rights.”

He said, “The ministers reiterated their commitment to further enhance the central role of the United Nations and to adhere to its Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy and relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions.”

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said the G8 statement was expression of its support for the Russian government and people in their battle against terrorism.

Since Canada is holding G8 and G20 summits later in June, it is the current leader of the groupings.