OTTAWA, Nov 5: Canada has advised its citizens not to travel to Pakistan because of the situation in the wake of imposition of state of emergency. Those already in the country have been asked to keep a low profile.

In its latest travel advisory, the Canadian foreign affairs ministry said a state of emergency was declared in Pakistan on Nov 3 and, therefore, Canadians in Pakistan should be especially vigilant and avoid public gatherings and demonstrations. They should also monitor local news reports, follow the advice of local authorities and contact consular officers in case of emergency.

It reminded Canadians that there had been attacks in Pakistan perpetrated by extremists and related to sectarian strife, regional political disputes and the situation in Afghanistan. The attacks, which had caused many deaths and injuries, had occurred in hotels, markets, public transportation, at religious sites, at airports and other public areas.

It also mentioned former prime minister Benazir Bhutto’s arrival in Karachi on Oct 18 and said that despite tight security measures, two bomb explosions caused over 125 deaths and a left large number of people injured.

Meanwhile, Canadian Defence Minister Peter MacKay and his cabinet colleague Maxime Bernier condemned the imposition of emergency rule and said the current situation in the country was adding to instability in the region.

“We’re very concerned in regard to the stability, in regard to the impact it will have on regional security,” Mr MacKay said.