Canada calls Mumbai blasts `despicable'

Toronto, Nov 27 (IANS) Calling it a cowardly act, Canada Wednesday condemned the series of blasts in Mumbai that claimed at least 80 lives.

In a statement, Foreign Minister Lawrence Cannon said, 'Canada strongly condemns the savage terrorist attacks in Mumbai, which have left hundreds of innocent civilians injured or killed. These cowardly attacks are truly appalling.'

The minister said, 'On behalf of all Canadians, I extend my condolences to the families and friends of those who lost their lives, and I wish a speedy recovery to the injured.'

Expressing support for India in its fight against terrorism, Cannon said: 'Canada stands firmly united with the government of India in condemning these despicable acts of violence.

'Canada and India share a commitment to freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law. Among our mutual priorities is close cooperation to promote international security and to fight terrorism.'

Cannon said Canada was working with Indian authorities to assist any Canadians who may have been directly affected by these events.

'We will continue to monitor events as they develop,' he said.

Deepak Obhrai, who as parliamentary secretary to the foreign minister is the highest-ranking Indian-Canadian in the Canadian government, joined Cannon in condemning the blasts.

'The Mumbai attacks show that no country is immune from the deadly designs of terrorists. We stand behind India in its fight to eliminate this terrible scourge,' he told IANS.

Obhrai said he will make a detailed statement on the blasts in the Canadian House of Commons Thursday.