Canada joins International Coalition for the Sahel
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Ottawa, Jun 13 (Canadian-Media): A joint announcement on June 13 by François-Philippe Champagne, Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Harjit S. Sajjan, Canada’s Minister of National Defence jointly said that Canada is joining the International Coalition for the Sahel (ICFS) to facilitate coordination and interaction of international action to support the G5 Sahel countries, media reports said.
G5 Sahel countries, an institutional framework for coordination and regional cooperation aims to develop policies and security matters in West Africa.
Canada is proud to be a partner in the ICFS, said Champagne who will participate in the coalition’s Small Group of Foreign Ministers, said he is looking forward to working with them, and with international partners to help restore peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.
During virtual meetings with their respective counterparts, Champagne and Sajjan said that Canada is committed to promoting Sahel’s priorities for peace and security, economic and social development, inclusive governance, gender equality, and climate change.
Canada’s engagement in contributing to international efforts to stabilize the region, by participating in operations, exercises, and capacity-building initiatives was also highlighted by the ministers.
Canada with its strong, secure, engaged defense policy, said Sajjan is committed to working with its partners around the world in contributing to global efforts to support a more secure and stable Sahel region.
Canada through the deployment of civilians, police, and military officers also supports the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA).
Canada’s support through major bilateral assistance programs in Mali and Burkina Faso contributes to development in the Sahel.
In addition, capacity-building training for the Nigerian Armed Forces is being provided by Canada through Operation NABERIUS.
France is also assisted by Canada under Operation FREQUENCE using military aircraft to support the movement of French personnel and military equipment to and from the Sahel region.