Canada sanctions 17 linked to chemical weapons in Syria

WASHINGTON, April 21 (KUNA) -- The Canadian government Friday announced it is imposing sanctions on another 17 "high-ranking individuals" from the Syrian regime, in a bid to step up international pressure on Damascus.
Last week, Ottawa announced curbs on 27 senior officials from the regime in order "to immediately end indiscriminate violence against its own people, like this month's chemical weapons attack, and engage in meaningful negotiations," the statement from Global Affairs Canada said.
Friday's announcement also includes five entities "linked to the use of chemical weapons in Syria," Global Affairs said. No identities have been revealed.
All those listed by Canada's Special Economic Measures (Syria) Regulations are subject to an asset freeze and dealings prohibition, the statement affirmed. (end) ys.rk