Despite the 2011 planned end-date of Canada’s combat mission in Afghanistan many feel that rather than winding down combat operations in an attempt to foster some sort of a peaceful resolution to the conflict, Canada’s policy in Afghanistan is still one largely focused on expanding combat operations at the expense of approaches which seek to […]
Archive | June, 2009
Defence spending touted as "bringing great benefits" in midst of Recession
Speaking this past month at CANSEC, Canada’s largest annual defence trade show, Minister of Defence Peter MacKay reassured his audience that despite the country’s current economic situation defence contracts are secure. In a recent article about the trade show by Mike Blanchfield of the Canwest News Service MacKay is quoted as saying “The funding will be there, […]
Dr. Bruce Blair brings Global Zero campaign to Canada
On May 12th, 2009, in Ottawa, Bruce Blair, President Barack Obama’s advisor on nuclear weapons, delivered a speech entitled “Obama, Canada and the global movement to abolish nuclear weapons.” His visit was sponsored by Physicians for Global Survival. Recorded on May 12, 2009 Watch it on CPAC
Canada Cautiously Supporting Afghan Peace Talks
With peace talks under way between the Afghan government and representatives of the Taliban and other insurgent groups, cautious support is emerging from Canadian officials. But despite the indicated support, any backing from Canada is tempered with the caveat that “a deal must result in a central government that is not under Taliban control.” Additionally, […]
Expect a Surge in Afghan Casualties
American Lieutenant-General Stanley McChrystal admitted Wednesday “the Taliban had made significant gains in Afghanistan over the past two years” and warned “casualties will likely increase” as troop numbers are ramped up. As the new top commander in Afghanistan, McChrystal will be setting the tone as “a veteran of covert operations in Iraq who is considered an […]
A path to peace in Afghanistan?
As the violence in Afghanistan increases, some NATO members are considering a new path to peace in the troubled country: supporting government talks with Taliban insurgents. While negotiations would be restricted to insurgents who have abandoned their ranks; nonetheless, this new strategy, backed by the UK, signals a shift in the tide. “Peace and security […]