The World - News from Jan. 10, 1988

Canada has ordered three warships to steam to Haiti, but said it is “mere coincidence” that they will be there during next Sunday’s election. A spokesman for the External Affairs Ministry said two destroyers and a supply ship were ordered to the area for naval exercises held annually with French and U.S. vessels in the Caribbean. Meanwhile, in Washington a Pentagon spokesman said U.S. warships--including two aircraft carriers--will participate in two weeks of exercises starting Monday, but that it “has nothing to do with” Canada’s move. Prime Minister Brian Mulroney has expressed concern for the safety of 2,200 Canadians living in Haiti.