Mr. Speaker, hostilities in Bosnia have recently increased. Canadians are concerned for the safety of our troops in the region.
The United Nations laid down restrictions to prohibit local air force intervention in the conflict. We support the recent NATO air strikes enforcing the no fly zone.
A rule laid down and not enforced is worse than no rule at all; it is important that all combatants understand that the UN means what it says. Thus, this action has advanced the cause of protecting declared safe zones and allowing the provision of humanitarian aid to continue. Once again we want to express our
admiration of and support for our Canadian forces in that theatre.
Now that the United States has lifted its participation in the arms embargo, there is concern for how this will affect the situation in Bosnia. The Prime Minister has on several occasions stated that if the arms embargo is lifted Canadian forces will be withdrawn. Britain and France have voiced similar policies.
We hope the Canadian government will soon provide an update as to what negotiations are taking place and what actions are being considered.