(No. 297 - October 7, 2009 - noon EDT) The Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement regarding the delivery of new Canadian-supplied, state-of-the-art armoured personnel carriers (APCs) to peacekeepers with the African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID):
"Canada is pleased that six more new armoured personnel carriers have arrived in Dakar, Senegal, as part of our important contribution to the police units provided to UNAMID by African countries. Senegal has now received 12 APCs, and Burkina Faso and Uganda will also receive six each. Along with the 24 vehicles, we are also providing equipment and basic operator and maintenance training as part of a package valued at over $35 million.
"Canada is committed to strengthening UNAMID's capacity by investing in security, diplomacy and aid initiatives, and to playing a leadership role in supporting international efforts to establish sustainable peace and long-term stability in Darfur and all of Sudan."
As these APCs are manufactured in South Africa, Canada is also contributing to African economic and industrial growth.
For further information, media representatives may contact:
Natalie Sarafian
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
613-995-1851
Foreign Affairs Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
613-995-1874