Afghan president thanks Canada for 'giving the lives of your sons'

Prime Minister Harper concluded his trip to Afghanistan with a visit to President Hamid Karzai who thanked him for Canada's commitment to Afghanistan.

Karzai said he was willing to come to explain to Canadians why their presence is so important, a message he asked Harper to take home to a Canadian public grown somewhat skeptical of a mission that has taken the lives of 12 Canadians since 2002.

"Please convey to your people, to the people of Canada, the immense gratitude of the Afghan people for what your country, your people have done for us," he told Harper after an hour-long meeting.

"For giving the lives of your sons, for contributing in money, for contributing in soldiers and for being one of the biggest helpers in Afghanistan."

Harper's meeting with the Afghan leader came toward the end of his first foreign trip as prime minister. The high-security visit was aimed at boosting military morale, as well as support for the mission back home

Karzai also sees what Layton can't, that victory in Afghanistan is essential for Canada's future security.

Canadians are helping with everything from security, to training police, to helping the new provincial government in Kandahar set up its ministerial departments and even helping its governor organize press conferences.

Karzai said the help has been indispensable. And he argued that in helping Afghanistan, Canada is also helping itself and its Western allies.

"Afghanistan and Canada are united in one common objective," he said.

"By providing stability in Afghanistan, helping Afghanistan on its own feet, the Canadian troops - the Canadian sons and daughters - are also providing for the long-term security of Canada and the countries around it."

My respect for Harper continues to grow. Here's an idea, if Karzai ever comes to Canada we start the camera's rolling and sit him down with Layton. Layton can then explain why he feels the need to turn tail to Karzai personally with the whole country watching.


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