Minister Sajjan attends Munich Security Conference

February 16, 2020 – Ottawa – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

The Government of Canada is committed to upholding the values and interests that are core to Canada’s prosperity and security: democracy, human rights, and the rules-based international system.

Defence Minister Harjit S. Sajjan concluded a constructive trip to Munich, where he attended the 56^th Munich Security Conference February 14 and 15, 2020. With the current global political and security climate, these necessary discussions at the conference focused on the importance of maintaining the rules-based international order in the face of international security challenges, including the recent downing of Ukrainian flight PS752, tensions in the Middle East, and the protection of democracy and democratic institutions.

At the conference, Minister Sajjan participated in a number of bilateral meetings with the Ministers of Defence from France, Sweden, Australia, Georgia, Singapore, Switzerland, Japan, as well as the UN Under-Secretary General Jean-Pierre Lacroix, and the Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government. During these meetings, the Minister addressed Canadian defence and security priorities such as the protection of the Arctic, the importance of the UN Smart Pledge concept, and the need for increased coordination between partners and allies. The Minister also attended the Cohen Breakfast, where General Tod D. Wolters, NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe and Commander of U.S. European Command, presented on challenges to Trans-Atlantic security.

While in Munich, Minister Sajjan also participated on a panel on Arctic security, along with the Danish and Norwegian Foreign Ministers, and the European Commissioner for the Environment, Oceans and Fisheries. Minister Sajjan highlighted the important investments Canada is making in our Northern communities, the impact climate change is having, and the work that Canadian Rangers do to protect Canadians every day.

The Minister will continue to work with international partners to grow our relationships around the world.