Statement by the Prime Minister of Canada on North Korea

Prime Minister Stephen Harper strongly condemned the artillery attack by North Korea on the South Korean island of Yeonpyeong which resulted in the deaths of two South Korean marines. “This is the latest in a series of aggressive and provocative actions by North Korea, which continue to represent a grave threat to international security and stability in northeast Asia. Canada will continue to condemn all acts of aggression by North Korea in violation of international law.” Canada announced last month the adoption of a controlled engagement policy, terminating all official bilateral contacts between the government of Canada and the North Korean regime, with the exception of those necessary to address regional security concerns, human rights and the humanitarian situation in North Korea.