Ambassador Crosbie in Brussels to Discuss Canada's role in Afghanistan
Ambassador Crosbie in Brussels
Canada’s efforts in Afghanistan were highlighted recently during a visit to Brussels by Canada’s Ambassador to Afghanistan, William Crosbie. The Ambassador was in Belgium as part of a 2-day outreach programme from 24-25 June jointly organised by the Canadian Mission to the EU, the Canadian Joint Delegation to NATO and the Canadian Embassy to Belgium and Luxembourg.
At NATO, Ambassador Crosbie took part in a round table with ISAF Troop Contributors where there was a dynamic and open exchange of views on experiences and perspectives related to participation in ISAF. Ambassador Crosbie also met with a number of senior NATO officials to discuss strategic and operational issues related to Canada's engagement in Afghanistan.
The Ambassador discussed current operations with senior officials from the European Commission and the Council of the EU. He also spoke to those in charge of EU civilian operations, including officials working for the EU’s Police Mission in Afghanistan, EUPOL, of which Canada is an active member.
A lunchtime round table discussion was organised with Carnegie Europe, a leading pan-European foreign policy think tank. Bringing together a small targeted group of officials and experts from EU institutions, civil society, embassies and government departments, the event enabled Ambassador Crosbie to talk about the developments on the ground, including Canada's approach in the ‘Afghanisation’ effort, and upcoming challenges. An exhibition also highlighted the comprehensive nature of the Canadian mission and enabled participants to network before the event.
Ambassador Crosbie also met with the Belgian Special Envoy to Afghanistan to talk about the country's efforts in Afghanistan - a timely meeting as Belgium is set to take over the Presidency of the EU for the next six months from 1 July.
