Thursday, April 6, 2006

canadian troops to darfur ...

peacekeeping in darfur is a worthwhile task. however, peacekeeping put aside, one can only hope that harper utilizes 'others' for consulation regarding military missions; and doesn't consider bush a reliable mentor or advisor for canada's interests or interests of other nations!

Canada considers sending more troops to Darfur

OTTAWA, April 5 (Xinhua) -- Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper said on Wednesday that Canada was considering the possibility of boosting its military presence to help stabilize Sudan's vast western region of Darfur, where conflicts and violence have strained Canada's small armed forces with peacekeeping missions.

"We have given that some preliminary consideration. We haven't reached any final decision," Harper told reporters outside the House of Commons after meeting with his caucus.

"This is obviously something that would have to be worked out in concert with all of our allies, including the United States and others, and I do plan to have further discussions with (U.S.) President (George W.) Bush and others on the subject," said the prime minister.

Harper discussed the Sudan issue with Bush a week ago in Mexican city Cancun, where a North American leaders summit was held, but no detailed information was provided then.

Canada has a small team of 47 personnel working in Sudan, including 32 with a United Nations mission and 15 with the African Union in Darfur.

Estimates indicate that about 300,000 people have been killed and more than 2 million displaced since rebels rose up more than three years ago.

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