Minister of National Defence, Hon. Harjit S. Sajjan, participates in GLOBSEC 2020 Bratislava Forum
News release
October 7, 2020 – Ottawa – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces
Canada is dedicated to maintaining and strengthening its multilateral relationships with allies and partners, and understands the important role of NATO as a cornerstone of Canada’s international security policy. Engagement with the international community is crucial to mitigating the security and stability consequences brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Minister of National Defence, Harjit S. Sajjan, participated today in a successful virtual panel entitled A Compass of Stability: NATO’s Ageless Utility as part of the GLOBSEC 2020 Bratislava Forum. The themes of defence and security, as well as COVID-19, were addressed with the co-panellists Jaroslav Naď, Minister of Defence of the Slovak Republic, and Dr. Artis Pabriks, Minister of Defence of the Republic of Latvia.
During the panel, Minister Sajjan reiterated that, as a founding member of NATO, Canada recognizes the importance of trans-Atlantic unity for the safety and security of Canadians and our allies. He discussed the challenges NATO Allies are currently facing, how NATO can adapt and remain fit for purpose, and the firm belief that collaboration is critical to our enduring success.
Quotes
“2020 has been a difficult year for many of us around the world. The COVID-19 pandemic has added another layer to an evolving defence and security environment. Our experiences have shown us that we are stronger and more resilient when we work through these challenges together. Canada remains a dedicated NATO Ally and a partner in European defence, and we are committed to upholding and promoting the values that make NATO possible—interoperability, cooperation, and coordination between our countries.”
The Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of National Defence
Quick facts
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Canada is committed to providing direct support to NATO missions. The CAF has taken measures to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on operations and to protect its force in order to maintain this support.
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At present, Canada is:
- Leading the multinational NATO enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group in Latvia;
- Deploying CF-18 fighter aircraft to conduct NATO surveillance and policing activities in Europe;
- Deploying HMCS Toronto as part of Standing NATO Maritime Group One; and
- Commanding NATO Mission Iraq.
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GLOBSEC is a non-governmental think tank committed to enhancing prosperity, security and sustainability in Europe. It was established in 1993 and is based in Bratislava, Slovakia.
Associated links
Contacts
Floriane Bonneville
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of National Defence
Phone: 613-996-3100
Email: floriane.bonneville@forces.gc.ca
Media Relations
Department of National Defence
Telephone: 613-904-3333
Email: mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca
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