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Foreword

In accordance with the motion passed by the House of Commons on March 13, 2008, we are honoured to place before Parliament this eleventh quarterly report on Canada’s engagement in Afghanistan, addressing the period from October 1 to December 31, 2010.

On January 26, 2011, an important milestone in Afghanistan’s democratic development was passed with the inauguration of the National Assembly—a voice for the Afghan people.

This notable event was not easily achieved. While there was tangible improvement in the performance of Afghanistan’s electoral institutions, there were significant irregularities and fraud in September’s parliamentary elections that continue to be of concern and underline the need for the Government of Afghanistan to act resolutely to address governance and corruption issues at all levels of Afghan society. In close collaboration with the international community, Canada supported the work of the Electoral Complaints Commission and Independent Election Commission and welcomed President Karzai’s decision to proceed with a January inauguration.

The September parliamentary election also saw greater numbers of women elected than ever before in Afghanistan.

Responsive, participatory and accountable governance is critical to the sustainable recovery of Afghanistan and the future prosperity of its people. It is vitally important that good governance practices be afforded the chance to develop at the national, provincial and local levels of Afghan society.

Accountability is at the core of Canadian programming in Afghanistan. The Prime Minister of Canada has stated in unequivocal terms that Canada will not provide funding for Afghanistan unless we are convinced that this funding is used for its intended purpose. Fostering good governance in Afghanistan is one way to ensure that funds in Afghanistan are used appropriately.

Our report for this quarter focuses on advances made on Canada’s six priorities and three signature projects in Afghanistan, with particular attention to progress achieved in Afghanistan’s institutions of governance.

Safer communities mean greater freedom of movement, and positive perceptions of safety in turn enable good governance to take root and flourish. Canadians in Afghanistan continue to serve the interests of peace and progress with dedication and bravery. On behalf of all Canadians, we stand in honour and remembrance of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in this service, those who have been injured and their families.

Our next report will cover the period January 1 to March 31, 2011.

The Honourable John Baird
The Honourable John Baird
Minister of Foreign Affairs