canada's role in afghanistan
TRANSCRIPT
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Canada’s rolein Afghanistan
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OCTOBER 7, 2001: In response to the
events of September 11, the United States launches Operation
Enduring Freedom against al-Qaeda and its Taliban supporters.
OCTOBER 8, 2001: “The coalition of
nations that has come together to fight the threat of terrorism will
act on a broad front. It includes not only military but humanitarian,
financial, legislative, diplomatic and domestic security initiatives.”
Art Eggleton, Defence Minister
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FEBRUARY 2002: First contingents of
regular Canadian Forces arrive in Afghanistan
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AUGUST 2003: Amid increased violence, NATO
assumes responsibility for
security in Kabul, making
Afghanistan the organization’s
first commitment outside Europe.
2006: Rather than withdraw troops as
planned, Canada extends its
military commitment to
Afghanistan by two years. Troops
are redeployed to Kandahar.
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2008:The Harper government’s motion
to extend Canada’s mission to
2011 is approved by Parliament,
having gained support from the
Liberal opposition.
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2009: U.S. President Barack Obama announces the
deployment of another 30,000 U.S. troops to Afghanistan.
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Canada announces that 950 troops will remain in
Afghanistan until 2014 to train Afghan forces.
Meanwhile, Canadian aid to Afghanistan will be
significantly reduced.
NOVEMBER 17, 2010:
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Nearly 150,000 foreign troops from 47 countries are deployed
in Afghanistan, including roughly 2,800 Canadian Forces
personnel.
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International Forces in Afghanistan
• Operate without a broad political consensus or
comprehensive peace agreement
• Frequently use military methods that lack restraint or
respect for civilians
• Function without sufficient reconstruction or
peacebuilding efforts
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The war, which has killed tens of thousands of people – the
majority civilians – has evolved from a swift overthrowing of
the Taliban into a complex counterinsurgency effort against
Afghans who say they are trying to expel U.S.-led forces.
To avoid a state of perpetual war, we must demand a
comprehensive approach to security that includes Diplomatic
efforts, Development work and aid, support for Democracy,
efforts at Disarmament as well as Defence.
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