Reconstruction and development are fundamental goals of Canada’s mission in Afghanistan. Canada’s military is providing the security necessary in this hostile environment to meet this objective.
The federal government is clear – the Canadian Forces are engaged in stabilization and reconstruction operations in Afghanistan to ensure the country never again becomes a haven for international terrorism.
Clearly understanding why Canada remains in Afghanistan today remains a significant challenge.
On Thursday, November 16th, Hon. Gordon O’Connor, Minister of National Defence, will address Canada’s integrated ‘Whole-of-Government’ approach to Afghanistan.
Discussions will include: the role of the military, diplomats, and development workers in Afghanistan, Canada’s commitment until 2009, indicators for mission success, and the strategy for achieving positive results.
“The fact of the matter is that nobody has suggested this is an easy battle. And while there are some difficult times ahead, I truly believe we’re making progress in Afghanistan,” says Minister O’Connor.
Canada along with its NATO allies continues to make progress in the Afghanistan. In the last four years:
* 4.8 million children have been enrolled in school (one third of them are girls)
* 12,000 villages have access to funding for water needs
* Almost 63,000 soldiers have been disarmed, 11,000 heavy weapons have been secured
* 3.7 million refugees have returned
* the country has a new parliament (25% women elected), a new constitution, and provincial councils
