In this Jan. 17, 2010 file photo, Canadian Police Constable Craig Dickie, left, from Milton, Ontario, part of the Canadian Police Contingent, demonstrates a gun to an Afghan Police officer at a checkpoint in Kandahar City.Kirsty Wigglesworth
Bob Rae can say whatever he wants but Prime Minister Stephen Harper isn't listening. He said today Canada's military mission in Afghanistan will end in 2011.
Mr. Harper was responding to the Liberal foreign affairs critic's assertions this week that there should be some serious discussions between NATO and Canada about what the future looks like for Canada in Afghanistan - a future that Mr. Rae believes could include keeping some Canadian troops in the country.
At a press conference with French Prime Minister Francois Fillon, the Prime Minister was asked about Mr. Rae's remarks that have caused a stir in official Ottawa.
They didn't seem to move him - Mr. Harper responded curtly and firmly:
"I think we've been very clear. We are working according to the parliamentary resolution that was adopted in 2008 by which Canada's military mission will end and will transition to a civilian and development mission at the end of 2011," he said.
"And that continues to be our work plan according to the resolution adopted by Parliament."
He repeated the exact same answer in French.
Next question.