Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, says he is joining Canadians across the country to mourn the loss of two Canadians, in the recent explosion in Beirut, Lebanon.

In a statement Trudeau offered condolences on behalf of the Government of Canada to the family and friends of those affected by the tragedy. Trudeau says his thoughts are with Canadians injured or missing in Lebanon, and with Lebanese-Canadian communities worried about their loved ones, as the search continues.

The Prime Minister states the first priority will be to ensure Canadians and their families affected by the blast have the consular assistance needed. Canada will be setting up a task force to support these services and to answer immigration questions. Lebanese citizens in Canada will also temporarily be able to extend their stay in Canada if they are unable to return home due to the explosion.

The Government of Canada previously announced $30 million in assistance to Lebanon and will be matching up to $5 million in donations made by Canadians to the Lebanon Matching Fund.