Canada lists TTP as terrorist group

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OTTAWA, July 6 (UPI) -- The Canadian government officially listed the Pakistani Taliban as a terrorist group, pointing to its claims of responsibility for multiple suicide attacks.

The announcement about the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan or TTP was made by Public Safety Minister Vic Toews under the Criminal Code of Canada, the government Web site said.

"Listing Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, an organization that has claimed responsibility for multiple suicide attacks in Pakistan and the attempted bombing of Times Square in New York City in May 2010, is an essential part of our efforts to combat terrorism and keep our communities safe," the minister said in his statement.

The listing means persons in Canada and Canadians overseas cannot knowingly deal with assets owned or controlled by the TTP or knowingly participate in or facilitate activities of a listed entity.

"Fighting terrorism is one of the most important challenges we face as a nation. The threat is real, persistent, and evolving, and we remain vigilant in confronting it," Toews said in his statement.

The United States took similar action against the TTP last year.

The group is different from the Afghan Taliban although the former has supported the latter in the insurgency in Afghanistan.