A "message" from Message - Canadian Forces Operations in Afghanistan
Why are we there?
Canada is in Afghanistan at the request of the democratically elected government, among with 36 other nations, and as part of a UN - sanctioned mission to help build a stable, democratic, and self-sufficient society.
About 2,500 members of the Canadian Forces are currently serving as part of Joint Task Force Afghanistan. They play a key role in the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force mission whose goal is to improve the security situation in Afghanistan and assist in rebuilding the country.
Canada's continued engagement in Afghanistan helps create the conditions for longer-term reconstruction. All Canadian Forces operations in Afghanistan are conducted with consent and at the request of the Afghan government to:
Provide the people of Afghanistan with the hope for a brighter future by establishing the security necessary to promote development and an environment that is conducive to the improvement of Afghan life;
Conduct operations in support of Afghan National Security Forces;
Help extend the authority of the Government of Afghanistan in the South;
Facilitate the delivery of programs and projects that support the economic recovery and rehabilitation of Afghanistan; and
Assist in addressing humanitarian needs of Afghans by supporting Canadian governmental organizations and NGOs whose efforts meet Canada's objectives.
The Afghan people are relying on the International community to help them rebuild their lives and their country after having suffered through decades of instability, oppression and insurgency.
By supporting the rebuilding of institutions such as independent courts, police and an army, Canada is on the ground laying the foundation for Afghans to govern themselves and secure a better future.
Canada has shown leadership by committing troops, resources, development and political effort to help the Afghan government secure a better future for its people. We have made a commitment to the Afghan people and we will stand by that commitment.
Helping Afghanistan continues the noble Canadian tradition of taking an active role to bring stability and lasting peace in a part of the world that has seen turmoil and upheaval.
Canada's efforts in Afghanistan are guided by the Afghanistan Compact, which provides a five-year framework for coordinating the work of the Afghan government and its international partners by outlining specific outcomes, as well as the benchmarks and time-lines for their delivery in the three areas of security, governance, and development.
Rebuilding a shattered Afghanistan is a slow and complex process in a country that is emerging from more than two decades of human rights abuses, terror, conflict, drought and poverty.
We are making progress - unthinkable only a few years ago - which is a testament to the will and the fortitude of the Afghan people, as well as the commitment and engagement of the international community.
Complete Story - DND Backgrounder: BG-07.009 - January 5, 2007
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