In a significant development, Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, Marc Miller, announced on Monday that his country has relocated over 40,000 vulnerable Afghan citizens to safety, reaffirming its commitment to aiding those affected by the ongoing turmoil in Afghanistan.
In a social media statement, Miller highlighted the deep bond between Canada and Afghanistan and the government’s unwavering dedication to continuing its relocation efforts.
“Canada has a profound connection to Afghanistan, and to those who’ve assisted us,” Minister Miller stated. “We have now fulfilled our promise to welcome more than 40,000 Afghans to Canada, and we remain steadfast in bringing them to safety in their new home.”
The Canadian government, in a statement, reiterated its resolute commitment to supporting vulnerable Afghans.
Minister Miller acknowledged the ongoing hardships faced by the Afghan population due to the actions of the Taliban, with particular emphasis on the severe impact on the rights and freedoms of women and girls.
“The ongoing horrors inflicted by the Taliban in Afghanistan continue to take a toll, and the consequences for the rights and freedoms of the Afghan people, especially women and girls, are immeasurable,” Miller expressed.
He further added, “Canadians, resettlement organizations, and their dedicated front-line staff have gone above and beyond in welcoming Afghan citizens, and we are immensely grateful for their ongoing support.”
Simultaneously, the Canadian government stated that its Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will maintain a high-priority approach to processing eligible applications submitted under the Afghan special measures.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) commended Canada’s efforts, with Amy Pope, Director General, expressing gratitude for Canada’s commitment to ensuring that Afghan refugees can flourish in their new communities.
“The partnership we have established with Canada is an exemplar of the effectiveness of such work, benefiting not only governments and IOM but also the individuals we assist and the communities they now call home,” Pope remarked.
Additionally, Canada noted that it has been providing support to the people of Afghanistan since August 2021 when the Taliban seized control of the nation, resulting in a multifaceted crisis that impacted millions.
“In the two years since, Canada has offered vital assistance to the Afghan people. Our ongoing support is fueled by our deep connection to Afghanistan, including with those who served alongside us for over two decades, our commitment to serving the Afghan people, and their expanding diaspora that has contributed to the enrichment of Canada,” the Canadian Government conveyed.
