Question Period Note: General Bajwa Cancelled Trip to Canada

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About

Reference number:
DND-2022-QP-00030
Date received:
Jun 20, 2022
Organization:
National Defence
Name of Minister:
Anand, Anita (Hon.)
Title of Minister:
Minister of National Defence

Issue/Question:

Why does this Government believe a $50,000 government-funded trip for General Qamar Javed Bajwa, the Pakistani Army Chief of Staff, was appropriate given the general's record in human rights and its ties to terrorist groups?

Suggested Response:

  • National Defence routinely interacts with foreign militaries, including on operations, training, and exchanges.

  • For example, both Canada and Pakistan contribute to the US-led Combined Task Force 150, which helps counter terrorism and makes Middle Eastern waters more secure.

  • That is why it is important from time to time for National Defence to facilitate official visits.

  • National Defence works with Global Affairs, and Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada to assess all official military visits and ensure they follow appropriate protocols.

  • Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the trip for General Bajwa was cancelled, a full assessment process could not be completed, and the trip was not approved at the Assistant Deputy Minister level.

Background:

Quick Facts

Visit of General Qamar Javed Bajwa

  • General Bajwa is the Commander of the Army of Pakistan (roughly equivalent to the Chief of the Defence Staff)

  • A proposed visit in 2020 was cancelled due to COVID-19

    • No funds were spent on the proposed visit

  • General Bajwa attended the Canadian Forces College and graduated from the Joint Command and Staff Programme

Additional Information:

Responsible Principals: Assistant Deputy Minister (Policy)