IV. Conclusion

The Canadian commitment to Afghanistan is difficult, costly and dangerous. But our purpose is sound: to contribute, as best we can, to an Afghanistan that is better governed, more peaceful and more secure. With that objective, Canada's mission is focused for practical and realizable results by 2011.

Canada is not alone in this undertaking. We are an important contributor, with more than 50 other countries, to an international partnership supporting the rebuilding of Afghanistan under UN authority. With our partners, Canada is working to help advance the well-being of Afghans—and to develop a country that does not again harbour a terrorist menace to international peace and the security of Canadians.