Event on Canada’s Policy Toward Afghanistan (October 28, 2024)
On October 28, 2024, the University of British Columbia (Institute of Asian Research) and the Consulate General of Afghanistan in Vancouver jointly organized an event on Canada’s policy towards Afghanistan at UBC’s Vancouver campus. During the event, Ambassador David Sproule, Canada’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, Mr. Ramin Manawi, Consul General of Afghanistan in Vancouver, Dr. Zahir Faqiri, Faculty and Research Associate, Head of Central Asia Studies at UBC, Mr. Kai Ostwald, Professor and Director of the Asia Center at UBC, Professor Emeritus Paul Evans, Ms. Maryam Hagheer, UBC Alumna; and Ms. Maryam Bekzad delivered remarks regarding the current situation in Afghanistan and Canada’s policies.
Ambassador Sproule gave a keynote speech covering Canada’s policy towards Afghanistan, its humanitarian assistance, Canada’s conditional approach, the ongoing crisis and catastrophe in Afghanistan, human rights concerns, restrictions on women, gender persecution, rights of minorities, Canada’s role in peace and stability, the role of the diaspora in supporting relevant policies, and related issues.
Consul General Manawi addressed Afghanistan’s historical significance as a crossroads of civilizations, its rich cultural heritage, the values that denounce extremism, the resilience of its people, the current catastrophic situation, human rights violations, severe restrictions on women, gender apartheid, accountability under int treaties, appreciation for Canada’s commitment/assistance, and continuation of current Canadian policies. He also acknowledged and appreciated Ambassador Sproule’s service and his visit to Vancouver. The audience also participated actively, engaging with comments and questions.
In addition, Ambassador Sproule held several separate meetings during his two days visit, connecting with women leaders and activists, community leaders, academics and scholars, journalists, and activist unions.
Published in: News
Last modified on Sunday, 10/11/2024
