Prime Minister Mark Carney embarked on a significant visit to Latvia

Today, Prime Minister Mark Carney embarked on a significant visit to Latvia, where he is focusing on bolstering transatlantic security and reinforcing NATO's efforts to deter Russian aggression on the Eastern Flank. This crucial trip comes at a time when the global community is faced with the ongoing threat of Russian aggression, and Canada is reaffirming its commitment to collective defense and security in the region.

During his meeting with Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa, Prime Minister Carney announced the renewal of Canada's Operation REASSURANCE for an additional three years. This mission, launched in 2014 following Russia's initial invasion of Ukraine, remains the largest overseas deployment for the Canadian Armed Forces, with approximately 2,000 troops currently stationed in Latvia to deter Russian aggression and defend NATO territory.

The renewal of Operation REASSURANCE is a testament to Canada's unwavering commitment to the security and stability of the region. As the Framework Nation, Canada leads the NATO Multinational Brigade in Latvia, comprising around 3,000 personnel from 14 NATO Allies. This significant presence demonstrates Canada's dedication to upholding the principles of collective defense and promoting a safer and more secure Europe.

Prime Minister Carney emphasized the significance of NATO's role in maintaining peace and security in the region, stating, "To secure lasting peace in Ukraine and Europe, we must deter and fortify. For over a decade, Canadian troops have played an essential role in deterring Russian aggression on NATO's Eastern Flank and strengthening our shared defense. Canadians can take pride that our troops will continue to lead Operation REASSURANCE in this important mission for greater security, stability, and prosperity in Europe and globally."

The Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence, echoed Prime Minister Carney's sentiments, highlighting the critical role that Canadian Armed Forces members play in enhancing defense on Europe's Eastern Flank. "Through Operation REASSURANCE, Canada's Armed Forces members are on the front lines, collaborating with our NATO Allies to enhance defense on Europe's Eastern Flank. Their dedication and professionalism help deter threats, protect the region, and uphold the democratic values that maintain peace and stability both at home and abroad. Canada is proud to stand with its Allies and contribute to this important mission."

During his visit, Prime Minister Carney was accompanied by Minister of National Defence David J. McGuinty. Canada plans to complete the full implementation of persistently deployed Brigade capabilities to Latvia by 2026, resulting in up to 2,200 Canadian Armed Forces members as part of NATO's Forward Land Forces and supporting elements in Latvia. This significant investment in defense capabilities underscores Canada's commitment to meeting its NATO defence spending obligations, with plans to exceed $9 billion in defense investments for 2025-26.

At the 2025 NATO Summit in The Hague, Canada committed to a new Defence Investment Pledge, aiming to invest 3.5% of annual GDP on core defense investments and an additional 1.5% on defense and security-related investments by 2035. This pledge demonstrates Canada's long-term commitment to individual and collective security, and its willingness to work with its NATO Allies to address emerging security challenges.

In related news, Prime Minister Carney recently announced the largest pay increase for Canadian Armed Forces members in a generation, highlighting the government's appreciation for the critical role that these individuals play in maintaining Canada's national security.

As Prime Minister Carney's visit to Latvia comes to a close, it is clear that Canada is committed to strengthening its ties with its NATO Allies and reaffirming its dedication to collective defense and security in the region. Through its renewed commitment to Operation REASSURANCE and its investments in defense capabilities, Canada is sending a strong message that it will continue to play a leading role in promoting peace, stability, and security in Europe and beyond.