Canada to increase military presence in the Indo-Pacific: Defence Minister Anita Anand

At the Halifax International Security Forum on Friday, Canadian Defence Minister Anita Anand announced that Canada intends to increase its military presence in ally nations in the Indo-Pacific.

Canada has been trying to strengthen relations with indo-pacific nations amid the growing conflict between Canada and China.

“Our strategy will position Canada as a leader in promoting peace and security in the region. We will increase our military presence and enhance our defence and security relationships with partners and allies in the region,” said Anand at the Forum.

The Defence Minister did not, however, provide details of the military strategy. The Canadian Government will reportedly detail the strategy to counter China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific in the coming few weeks.

Speaking of the growing tensions with China, Anand asserted, “We will challenge China when we ought to. We will cooperate with China when we must.”

In her address at the security forum, Anand also reiterated Canada’s support towards Ukraine as well as the government’s commitment to NORAD, the joint U.S.-Canadian North American defence organization.

“Canada will continue to stand with the Ukrainian people, for however long it takes, ” she stated.