Canada’s New Role 2011-2014
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- Afghanistan
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- Govt. Canada
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Read the transcript or download the video.
Much has been accomplished over the past decade. Canada’s work is making a difference.
Our efforts have made a direct contribution to improving the lives of women and girls, and we remain steadfast in building on this progress. In addition, Canada remains committed to an Afghan education system that gives all Afghan children the opportunity to make a positive contribution to their families, their society, and the future of their country.
Transcript of the Podcast: Canada’s New Role 2011-2014
2012 marks the beginning of a new chapter for Canada’s engagement in Afghanistan.
Canada is part of a much broader international mission that is focussed on helping the Government of Afghanistan assume leadership for all aspects of Afghan development.
Canada’s goal is to leave Afghanistan to Afghans, better governed and self-sustaining, more stable and secure, and never again a safe haven for terrorists.
Between now and 2014 Canada will focus on the areas of security, regional diplomacy, human rights and development.
New programming will be concentrated in four key areas:
- First, investing in the future of Afghan children and youth through development initiatives in education and health; especially women and children;
- Second by advancing security, rule of law and human rights, including up to 950 Canadian Forces trainers and support personnel, and 45 Canadian police trainers for Afghan security forces;
- Third by promoting regional diplomacy, in particular between Afghanistan and Pakistan; and
- Fourth, by delivering humanitarian assistance.
Much has been accomplished over the past decade. Canada’s work is making a difference.
Our efforts have made a direct contribution to improving the lives of women and girls, and we remain steadfast in building on this progress. In addition, Canada remains committed to an Afghan education system that gives all Afghan children the opportunity to make a positive contribution to their families, their society, and the future of their country.
As of December 2011, Afghan forces began assuming security responsibility for the second set of Afghan provinces, districts and cities as part of the transition process. The transfer of security responsibility for this second phase represents a very significant step in a process which will eventually see Afghan Forces take responsibility for security across the country.
Fundamental to Afghan security is equal access to human rights and justice for the Afghan people. Canada will continue to build on our reputation as a respected partner in the promotion and protection of human rights in Afghanistan, particularly when it comes to gender equality, a core Canadian value.
Millions of Afghans are vulnerable to chronic food insecurity and natural disasters, and Canada will continue to provide humanitarian assistance to meet the immediate needs of vulnerable Afghans affected by conflict. Part of our assistance program includes our continued efforts to eradicate polio.
The successful Canadian-led ‘Afghanistan-Pakistan Cooperation Process’ will continue to support border cooperation between Afghanistan and Pakistan, including enhancing customs, immigration, law enforcement and counter-narcotics arrangements.
The Canadian Forces training mission will help Afghan Forces develop strong skills through leadership, medical, literacy, and army and police training.
To find out more about Canada’s engagement in Afghanistan over the next three years, please visit www.afghanistan.gc.ca.