Canada Strengthens Defence Commitments During NATO and G7 Meetings
Naples, Italy – The Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, has concluded a pivotal visit to Europe, where he participated in both the NATO Defence Ministers’ Meeting (DMM) and the inaugural G7 Defence Ministers’ Meeting. This significant engagement highlights Canada’s ongoing commitment to international security amid global instability.
During the NATO DMM held from October 17 to 18 in Brussels, Minister Blair announced a substantial military assistance package exceeding $60 million for Ukraine. This aid includes the procurement of small arms and ammunition from Canadian manufacturers, as well as personal protective equipment and military uniforms for 30,000 female soldiers of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU). Additionally, the funding allocates $5 million towards the Drone Capability Coalition Common Fund. Minister Blair also declared Canada’s membership in the IT Coalition with an initial contribution of $2 million to bolster cyber capabilities.
At the NATO meeting, Blair reiterated Canada’s steadfast support for Ukraine, emphasizing the country’s commitment to countering Russian aggression. He also highlighted Canada’s role in NATO, particularly through the expansion of the Canadian-led brigade in Latvia.
The discussions among NATO allies addressed defense strategies across the Euro-Atlantic, Middle East, and Indo-Pacific (IP) regions, reaffirming collective support for Ukraine and the implementation of deliverables from the NATO Summit in Washington earlier this year.
The @NATO Defence Ministers’ meeting wrapped up today after a productive session.
We had substantive discussions with our NATO Allies and partners on supporting Ukraine, collaborating on shared priorities, and investing in capabilities to strengthen our collective security. pic.twitter.com/8ydUjAlsIk
— Bill Blair (@BillBlair) October 18, 2024
In a notable development, the meeting included the first participation of IP partners—Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and South Korea (collectively known as IP4)—where Minister Blair emphasized the importance of enhanced cooperation between NATO and these partners.
Minister Blair also signed a Letter of Intent for the NATO NORTHLINK Initiative, which aims to harmonize requirements for space-based satellite communications among 13 Allied nations, providing Canada an opportunity to shape this project to meet its national interests.
Following the NATO discussions, Minister Blair attended the G7 Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Naples from October 18 to 19, where the ministers reaffirmed their commitment to addressing current and future security challenges. Key topics included military assistance for Ukraine, peace efforts in the Middle East, and the fight against misinformation. The G7 ministers issued a joint declaration reiterating unwavering support for Ukraine and expressing concern over escalating violence in the Middle East.
Minister Blair emphasized Canada’s continued collaboration with G7 partners on shared priorities, which also includes economic security and resilience. The ministers highlighted their commitment to the sustainability of military operations and support for African nations to promote stability and prosperity.
In his remarks, Minister Blair noted the importance of Canada’s contributions to the protection of global security amidst shifting geopolitical landscapes.
As Canada continues to strengthen its relationships with NATO Allies and G7 partners, it remains dedicated to ensuring the safety of the one billion citizens that NATO protects, including all Canadians.
