Canada Announces New Role in Afghanistan

Canada announced a new role for engagement in Afghanistan that will build on progress in the areas of security, diplomacy, human rights and development. The new non-combat role will focus on four key areas: investing in the future of Afghan children and youth through education and health; advancing security, the rule of law and human rights; promoting regional diplomacy; and delivering humanitarian assistance to the Afghan people. After 2011, Canadian Forces personnel will be deployed as part of the NATO Training Mission-Afghanistan to continue training Afghan National Security Forces in a non-combat role, until March 2014. Canada will provide up to 950 military trainers and support personnel and will work with allies to determine how Canadian expertise can further contribute to a disciplined and effective Afghanistan security force. This chapter in Canada’s engagement will also include contributions aimed at improving the lives of Afghan women, as well as support to the G-8 Initiative on Maternal, Newborn and Child Health.