Changing the Tide: A Canadian Perspective on Afghanistan November 3, 2009

Canada has been a key ally in NATO’s campaign to bring peace and stability to Afghanistan. The Canadian government has committed a force of 2800 troops in Afghanistan, with the majority deployed in the volatile southern region of Kandahar. Despite Canada’s and its Allies’ efforts to defeat the Taliban, the situation in Afghanistan remains dire. NATO forces have had to endure mounting casualties and have struggled to thwart a Taliban insurgency that has grown more deadly in recent months. Afghanistan is also plagued by a government widely seen as corrupt and powerless outside of Kabul. Such grave problems have led many to question whether victory in Afghanistan is achievable and what strategy is necessary to achieve progress in the country.

Please join the Canada Institute for a discussion with Lt. General Andrew Leslie, Chief of the Land Staff, Canadian Armed Forces. Leslie will offer his perspective on the progress and challenges facing NATO forces in Afghanistan. He will also discuss his thoughts on the strategy required to successfully stabilize the war torn country, and Canada’s expected role in Afghanistan after the Canadian government’s proposed 2011 withdrawal date.

Official Website: http://www.wilsoncenter.org/index.cfm?topic_id=1420&fuseaction=topics.event_summary&event_id=551475