The Minister of National Defence, Anita Anand, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mélanie Joly, recently announced that Canada has deployed a Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) CP-140 Aurora long-range patrol aircraft to support Canada’s efforts to disrupt the activities of gangs in Haiti. The effort further demonstrates Canada’s commitment to the Haitian people. Violence and dire security issues exist within the country and continue to escalate. Canada is attempting to address the situation by answering the request of the Haitian National Police for assistance.
“Canada is committed to supporting the people of Haiti, as well as peace and security in the country. The deployment of a Canadian patrol aircraft will strengthen efforts to fight criminal acts of violence and to establish the conditions necessary for a peaceful and prosperous future. I thank all members of the Canadian Armed Forces involved in this mission for their service and dedication to global stability,” said the Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of National Defence.
The CP-140 aircraft has already deployed to the region and is currently operating over Haiti providing intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capability to bolster efforts to establish and maintain peace and security. It is expected to remain in the region for several days.
“In recent weeks, the violence in Haiti has escalated as the gangs continue to terrorize vulnerable populations with impunity. The international community has a role to play in responding to the current humanitarian and security crisis and Canada is committed to playing a leadership role. We will continue to support Haitian-led efforts to restore security and build a safer and brighter future for its people,” explained the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs.
In the ongoing effort to support he people of Haiti as they strive for a peaceful and prosperous future, Canada has:
- been supportive of diplomatic efforts toward an inclusive political dialogue that will lead to fair and free elections;
- provided more than $98 million in international assistance to respond to the urgent and basic needs of the population;
- imposed sanctions on those responsible for the ongoing violence, including Haitian elites who are enabling the gangs;
- and provided support to the Haitian National Police.
Additionally, in October 2022 and January 2023, the RCAF airlifted Haitian-purchased armoured vehicles to the Director General of the Haitian National Police in response to requests from the Haitian government.
Canada will continue to explore ways to help the Haitian people emerge from this crisis.