Mr. Harper could begin by saying that Canada’s national security ties to Europe are weakening as memories of the Cold War fade and deployments of the Canadian Forces alter our perceptions of this country’s place in the world. Mr. Harper might emphasize that it is impossible today to imagine any credible scenario whereby Canada would ever again rally to the defence of Europe. As Europe’s policies demonstrate in Afghanistan, it is obvious to Canadians that they cannot expect Europe to spend one soldier’s life in the defence of Canada’s interests. Indeed, Mr. Harper should warn Mr. Rasmussen that his government is busy preparing to meet serious and prolonged challenges to Canada’s sovereignty, especially in the Arctic and in the Gulf of St. Lawrence – challenges, ironically, launched by our so-called NATO allies.
The Prime Minister should also inform the Secretary-General that Canada is no longer merely a “North Atlantic nation.” (graphic: Anthony Jenkins/Globe and Mail)