Minister Sajjan marks the International Day of UN Peacekeepers
Transcript
Today, on the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers, I join citizens around the world in paying tribute to the women and men who have served in peacekeeping operations.
Peacekeepers play a vital role in the protection of the most vulnerable populations, deploying to unstable regions, and solving complex tasks.
This important work does not come without sacrifice.
We honour the dedication and courage of United Nations peacekeepers by taking up their cause with renewed determination, and investing in peacekeeping to make a positive difference in the world.
This is why Canada remains committed to strengthening United Nations peacekeeping.
250 of our women and men in uniform are currently deployed on our Air Task Force in Mali supporting the stabilization efforts in the region with life-saving medical evacuations of injured soldiers and citizens.
We also have peacekeepers in South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
We have launched the Elsie Initiative to increase the number of women in peacekeeping and introduced our National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security.
Canada has also stepped up to protect girls and boys around the world affected by armed conflict. The Vancouver Principles, developed in close collaboration with the Romeo Dallaire Child Soldiers Initiative, are helping Member States find ways to put an end to the recruitment and the use of child soldiers.
The service of United Nations peacekeepers is critical for global peace and security. Today, we stand together with partner nations and Member States in appreciation of all United Nations peacekeepers and their commitment and dedication to building a safer world.
Thank you.