OTTAWA – Canadian MP Jim Karygiannis submitted motion 505, calling on the Canadian parliament to recognize the bombing of Halabja as a crime against humanity.
The Canadian MP Karygiannis visited Kurdistan before and was interviewed by Rudaw. He expressed his heartfelt thanks to all Members of Parliament for passing Motion M-505 with respect to the poisonous gas attack on Halabja, Iraq and other atrocities committed by Saddam Hussein.
“Twenty-two years ago today, the Town of Halabja suffered a poisonous gas bombardment.” said Mr. Karygiannis. “I had the great privilege of presenting this Motion and I am deeply grateful to all Members of the House for understanding its significance to members of the Canadian Kurdish community and for their unanimous support.”
“In 2009, when I visited the Monument of Halabja Martyrs, I told the survivors that I would ask the House of Commons to declare the actions of the Saddam Hussein government against the Kurdish people to be a crime against humanity. Today, thanks to all Members of Parliament, I was able to keep my promise.” Mr. Karygiannis stated. “Governments are supposed to protect their citizens. The attacks on the Kurdish people were the act of a madman and monster.”
The Canadian MP also congratulated the Kurds with the Kurdish new year celebrations called Newroz on March 18.
