September 13, 2020 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada
The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:
“Canada welcomes the start of negotiations between the Government of Afghanistan and the Taliban. After more than 40 years of conflict, this is a long-awaited opportunity to pursue the elements of peace for the people of Afghanistan.
“With the start of negotiations, we also call for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire to permit the ongoing provision of safe assistance to those in need, especially as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to cause suffering in Afghanistan. A ceasefire would demonstrate to all Afghans the seriousness of commitments toward achieving a sustainable peace.
“An effective peace process will require the meaningful inclusion of all parts of Afghan society, including women, ethnic minorities and other marginalized groups.
“Canada stands ready to further support the people of Afghanistan as hopes for a peaceful future emerge.”
Ottawa- September 01, 2020
Ottawa- August 20, 2020
Excerpts from the letter by Her Excellency the Right Honourable Julie Payette, the Governor General of Canada addressed to His Excellency Mohammad Ashraf Ghani, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan on the occasion of 101st anniversary of the restoration of Afghanistan’s independence.
“On behalf of all Canadians, I would like to congratulate you and the people of Afghanistan on the occasion of your country’s independence day.”
“This year, we recognize the exceptional challenges that Afghanistan is facing as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the continued conflict.”
“Canada cherishes its strong relationship with Afghanistan. We remain firmly engaged with Afghanistan on issues that affect the lives of everyday people, including health and education, gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls, as well as peace and security for all Afghan citizens. “
“This celebration provides an opportunity to reflect on past accomplishments and on the future of your country, one in which the hard-fought gains over the past 19 years are preserved and the rights of all Afghans are protected. Canada remains steadfast in its support for a sustainable and inclusive peace in Afghanistan. “
Ottawa- August 19, 2020
Ambassador Hassan Soroosh spoke at a virtual program hosted by the Toronto-based Afghan Network for Social Services on the occasion of 101st anniversary of the restoration of Afghanistan’s independence.
Other speakers included the Honorable Rob Oliphant, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada as well as a number of Afghan scholars from Canada, the United States, Europe and Australia.
