Government outlines “strictly civilian” role in Afghanistan after 2011

An internal document confirms that Canada will end its military mission on schedule, and focus instead on development goals

A government presentation obtained by the Globe and Mail outlines Canada’s post-combat role in Afghanistan, and seems to confirm the government’s commitment to pulling troops out of the country by 2011. NATO allies have been pressuring Canada to extend its mission past its current mandate, but Stephen Harper has been unwavering in saying it will end on schedule. The seven-page presentation, posted today on the Globe’s website, reveals plans to spend $600-million between 2011 and 2014 on programs to help stabilize Afghanistan and focuses on four areas: “Afghan children and youth,” “promoting regional diplomacy,” “advancing the rule of law,” and “delivering humanitarian assistance.”