Canadian troops have been a major part of the NATO (North Atlantic Trade Organization) combat mission since 2001. On a recent trip, Canadian Defense Minister Peter MacKay hinted at an extension of the mission, but not without Parliamentary support.
Why Canada Should Stay: Security
Rasmussen visited a Canadian Aid project and praised the country for its contribution. In remarks published on CBC.CA he said: “I would like to take this opportunity to express my strong appreciation to the significant contribution to our mission in Afghanistan.”
He continued arguing the reason Canada should stay is security. Afghanistan is thousands of kilometers away from Europe and is widely viewed as a haven for terrorists. Rasmussen emphasized that point in comments published by theglobeandmail.com: “At the end of the day it is a question of our own security- we cannot allow Afghanistan to once again become a safe haven to terrorists- and I also think it is in Canada’s best interest to ensure a peaceful and safe Afghanistan.”
Since the mission began NATO has had 65,000 troops from 42 member nations. Canada has 2800 soldiers serving in southern Afghanistan. Rasmussen met with Afghan government officials including President Hamid Karazi, completely assuring him he had the alliance’s support as long as needed.
Federal Government Reacts To Rasmussen Comments
Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister Lawrence Cannon reacted on behalf of the federal government. In a statement published on CTV.CA he said Rasmussen’s comments recognized Canada’s contribution in Kandahar adding: “However our government is abiding by the motion passed in Parliament in 2008. That is: our combat forces will leave by 2011. We’re staying the course.” This backs Defense Minister MacKay’s previous remarks that his government would respect the will of Parliament.
Canadian troops have already begun withdrawing from countryside into cities, a sign the mission is shifting to one more humanitarian in nature. On MacKay’s recent trip he announced plans for a forensic facility examining the make-up of Improvised Explosive Devices (IED’s) at the Kandahar air base.
Other Canadian aid projects in the country include the reconstruction of Dhala Dam, as well as the construction of a model village of: Deh-E-Bagh located south of Kandahar. The village is seen as an example of how best to provide security and development in the country.
If Canada were to extend its combat mission it would take an act of Parliament. Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff suggested earlier this year his party might be willing to talk about an extension.
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