Question Period Note: Military Exercises with the People’s Liberation Army

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About

Reference number:
DND-2020-QP-00009
Date received:
Dec 12, 2020
Organization:
National Defence
Name of Minister:
Sajjan, Harjit S. (Hon.)
Title of Minister:
Minister of National Defence

Issue/Question:

Why is the Canadian Armed Forces engaging in military exercises and defence activities with the People’s Liberation Army?

Suggested Response:

  • The Canadian Armed Forces have not engaged in any training activities with China in 2019 and 2020.
  • National Defence is currently reviewing its military and defence engagements with China.
  • Canada remains committed to being a reliable player in the Asia-Pacific region through consistent engagement and strong partnerships.
  • This includes conducting a wide variety of military exercises with allies and partners, in addition to contributing to UN sanctions monitoring.
  • Canada will continue to engage in the Asia-Pacific Region in a manner that promotes peace and security around the world.

Background:

Responsible Principals: Assistant Deputy Minister (Policy), Strategic Joint Staff, Canadian Army

Additional Information:

Quick Facts

  • 2019 World Military Games:
    • The Canadian Armed Forces sent a delegation of 114 athletes to the 2019 World Military Games in Wuhan China.
    • 9,308 military athletes from 109 countries took part in the Games, including 25 of 27 NATO countries.
  • Winter Survival Training Initiative:
    • A proposed 2019 winter training observation by the Canadian Armed Forces and the People’s Liberation Army did not take place.
    • In January 2018, the Canadian Armed Forces sent a delegation to China to observe winter training conducted by the People’s Liberation Army.
    • In February 2018, the People’s Liberation Army sent a delegation to Canada to observe winter survival training conducted by the Canadian Armed Forces.
  • Defence Attaché
    • The Canadian Armed Forces maintain a Defence Attaché at the Canadian embassy in Beijing China as part of a longstanding policy of fostering defence relations with foreign militaries around the world.