MAY 14, 2024 – Canadian Defense Minister William Blair discussed updates to his country’s defense policy with Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, who hosted an enhanced honor cordon and meeting at the Pentagon.
The policy update was needed because “the world is changing,” Blair said, noting the war in Ukraine, conflict in the Middle East, and rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific.
Canada will need to make significant military investments to fulfill the policy update, but the increased defense spending will help Canada reach 2% of its gross domestic product to meet its NATO commitment, he said.
Blair said investments will include:
- New capabilities and equipment to enhance Arctic and North American security;
- Modernization of the North American Aerospace Defense Command;
- Supporting Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression; and
- Bolstering NATO’s defense.
Blair said Canada is increasing its military presence in Latvia. Also, Canada is hoping to soon stand up a Canadian-led multinational brigade.
The accession of Finland and Sweden into NATO will strengthen the alliance’s security in the Arctic region, Blair said.
“Canada has no closer friend than the United States. We have stood by each other in good times and in challenging times as close partners in defense and security,” he said.
“Our unparalleled partnerships allow us to maintain stability and prosperity here in North America and around the world,” he said.
Canada is a great neighbor, dependable friend and steadfast ally. Our countries have stood together for over a century, protecting our homelands, building a prosperous North America, upholding democracy and defending freedom worldwide. We’re proud to continue working shoulder to shoulder with you.” Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III
Austin said the policy update underscores the importance of defending the Arctic, enhancing cyber and space capabilities, and modernizing Canada’s defense infrastructure and equipment.
“I commend you on the DPU [defense policy update] and look forward to working together on implementation.”
The secretary thanked Blair for his nation’s support for Ukraine, including the announcement last month of Ottawa’s plan for drone production in Ukraine.
Besides the policy update, Austin said today’s talks will include:
- The United Nations-authorized, multinational security-support mission for Haiti;
- Advancing a shared vision for a free, open, secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific region;
- Updating the positive progress of NORAD modernization efforts, which are critical for the air and maritime defense of both the U.S. and Canada; and
- Ways to address continued Houthi attacks on military and commercial vessels in the Red Sea.
“Canada is a great neighbor, dependable friend and steadfast ally. Our countries have stood together for over a century, protecting our homelands, building a prosperous North America, upholding democracy and defending freedom worldwide. We’re proud to continue working shoulder to shoulder with you,” Austin said.
By David Vergun, DOD News