Canada assumes leadership role in NATO mission to Iraq

Today, during the Our Shared Global Values engagement event the Prime Minister of Canada announced the expansion of its leadership role by assuming command of a new NATO training and capacity building mission in Iraq.

“Since NATO’s creation in 1949, Canada has played a strong and active role in missions to advance peace and security for our citizens and people around the world. We are proud to take a leadership role in Iraq, and work with our Allies and the Government of Iraq, to help this region of the Middle East transition to long-lasting peace and stability,” said Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in a press release.

The mission is said to be the next step for Canada, as they move forward from the successful fight against Daesh to helping build institutional capacity in Iraq and creating foundations for longer-term peace and stability. In taking leadership of the new NATO training mission, it compliments Canada’s current efforts in the Global Coalition Against Daesh, transitioning support for Iraq to meet present needs and solidify gains.

Iraq faces incredible challenges in rebuilding the capacity of its security forces. Canada’s contribution will help to build security capacity and improve democratic governance. Two-hundred and fifty CAF members will take part in the mission and join partner countries in helping Iraq build a more effective national security structure and improve training for Iraqi security forces.

Canada’s leadership role will commence in Fall 2018 and run until Fall 2019. Troops will deploy to Baghdad and surrounding areas. Canada will also contribute up to four Griffon helicopters to support NATO activities.