(No. 345 - November 13, 2009 - 2:10 p.m. EST) The Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement regarding corruption in Afghanistan:
“Canada expresses its support to the Government of Afghanistan in tackling corruption at all levels in the country. Corruption hinders economic growth and good governance, and engenders distrust between the people and the government.
“I urge the Government of Afghanistan to honour its obligations as a signatory country and one which has ratified the UN Convention against Corruption. Corruption has the potential to increase economic inequalities and breed organized crime. Unchecked corruption leaves little room for democracy to flourish, little room for freedom to expand, little room for justice to prevail.
“I call on President Hamid Karzai in forming his new government to focus on establishing strong, democratic and accountable institutions that are committed to delivering basic services and strengthening efforts to combat corruption.
“Canada is in Afghanistan to help Afghans rebuild their country as a stable, democratic and self-sufficient society. Canada will continue to work with our partners in Afghanistan to advance the values of freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law.”
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For further information, media representatives may contact:
Natalie Sarafian
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
613-995-1851
Foreign Affairs Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
613-995-1874
