Canada's International Relations
Canada's International Relations
Canada is, and has been for many years, a proud and active member in both the UN and NATO. In both of these organizations, Canada is backed up by all other nations belonging to those organizations in regards to International Safety and Security.
Since the early 1950's, Canada and Europe have built on a trust, and have strengthened. Twice a year, these nations come together to address foreign and security policy issues, and implement a solution. Aside from the US, Canada is the only nation to be involved in regular trans-Atlantic meetings on safety and security issues.
Canada is actively involved in safety and security with the US, for obvious geographical reasons. These bonds are strong and very successful. Canada and the US have a long history of successful teamwork.
The US is by far Canada's most important ally. The two countries work together to maintain international peace and avoid violent conflicts. The American-led military actions in Iraq are viewed by some people as creating international violence. Others feel that without the US's strong opposition to the way Iraq functions, Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein could not, and would not be stopped. Many fear that if Mr. Hussein does not disarm, the only thing worse than going to war would be to wait for an attack on a peaceful nation again.
"Most recently, Canada has decided that they will not send forces to Iraq to work with the US during this war. Though many feel that Canada has turned their back on the US in their time of need, that is not the case. Canada is not listed as one of the more than 40 countries with the US, but in fact, Canada is helping in the effort. Canadian air space is open to the US, as well as Canada has chosen to take part in the aftermath of the war, as opposed to the battle. Though Canada's ground troop participation with the US in this war would have been beneficial for the US, it was not essential. Canada's decision not to participate in the war was due to the opposition of the UN Security Council. Also, had Canada participated in the war, peacekeeping efforts by Canada would not be permitted, so the Canadian decision was a long-term based decision. Canada's decision was not one against the US, and Canada's decision was not looked down upon by the US government. This decision is not expected to ruin Canadian/American relations."
Like the US, Canada has many relations with the Middle Eastern countries. The relations, however, are of a much different nature. Like many other countries, Canada is an active member in Middle East peacekeeping missions, and has been since the Suez Crisis in the 1950's. Canada is in full favour of solving the Israeli-Arab conflict, and recognizes that the conflict can only truly be solved by those nations. Canada's efforts are mainly to try and keep the two parties talking, and with a long-term goal to solve any future conflicts.
Canada is also a member of the RWG (Refugee Working Group), with 10 other members. This committee looks for action plans to improve living conditions for refugees. Canada's current peacekeeping efforts are in Afghanistan; a mission which started shortly after the September 11th terrorist attacks.
Text
by Daryn Collis
Earth photo used with permission from NASA
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provided with permission by http://ace.acadiau.ca/polisci/coursesincanadianpolitics.htm
Athens District
High School