Mr. Speaker, the Government of Canada strongly condemns recent violence in Egypt targeted at the Coptic Christian minority. Media reports note that the clashes erupted last week between police and hundreds of people protesting after authorities halted the construction of a church in Cairo. It was also reported that several people died and many more were injured.
We also condemn the attacks of the Nag Hammadi, which singled out Christians for persecution in that country.
We impress upon the government of Egypt to take a strong leadership role in protecting all religious freedom and religious tolerance within its borders. Canada is a strong supporter of religious freedom for believers of all faiths.
We encourage the House and the Egyptian government to respect the rights of the Coptic Christians, who have an ancient history in that country and we hope a bright future of freedom and security.