OTTAWA, February 21, 2013 — The Honourable Vic Toews, Minister of Public Safety, returned today from Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, and Amman, Jordan, where he discussed various public safety and security issues with senior officials.
‘‘Our Government is committed to the global fight against terrorism, and deepening our relationships with other countries will help us achieve that goal,’’ said Minister Toews. ‘‘Countries like the United Arab Emirates and Jordan play an important role in promoting regional peace and stability. During my visit, I was pleased to have had discussions on pressing international security issues, such as the ongoing conflict in Syria.’’
While in Abu Dhabi, the Minister met with his counterpart, His Highness Lt. Gen. Sheikh Saif Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of the Interior and Deputy Prime Minister, His Highness Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs, along with other ministers and senior officials. He also attended the 2013 International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX). The IDEX is an international defence exhibition and conference demonstrating the latest military technology across land, sea and air sectors of defence. Various Canadian companies were present at the Exhibition showcasing their products.
In Amman, Minister Toews met with Jordanian Prime Minister Abdullah Ensour and Deputy Prime Minister Awad Khleifat to discuss countering terrorism and violent extremism, and the situation in Syria, including the current refugee crisis.
The Minister also visited a Syrian refugee camp in Jordan where Canada is providing $11.5 million to assist with the Syrian refugee crisis, including the provision of vehicles and other equipment to the Jordanian Armed Forces, the Gendarmerie Force, and the Jordanian Public Security Directorate. Canada is also providing $48.5 million in humanitarian relief through the UN to help those affected by the crisis.
This visit reflects the strategic importance of these two countries to Canada. Canada will continue to foster partnerships with other countries as international cooperation is needed to enhance the safety and security of Canadians at home and abroad.
