Winnipeg Mayor Brian Bowman says he wants Winnipeg to take as many Syrian refugees as possible.

At a news conference on Sunday, Bowman said he has indicated to the premier and the federal government that the city is ready to accept as many refugees as they can arrange to send.

"It is something that I believe is in keeping with the traditions of tolerance and diversity that has helped build Winnipeg into the great city that it is," he said.

The provincial government stated it can to accept as many as 2,000 Syrian refugees by the end of 2015.

Bowman, said he is awaiting Tuesday's announcement from the federal government which will provide details of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's plan to resettle 25,000 Syrian refugees by years end. Once Bowman receives direction, he said Winnipeg will be ready to act.

"Now is not the time to close our doors," he said.

"Now is the time to really allow hope and humanity to triumph over fear."