President Karzai met with Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs Maxime Bernier in Kabul. Among the key issues of discussion were the war on terrorism, security and Canada’s continued assistance for reconstruction and economic development in Afghanistan.

Minister Bernier hailed the gains by the Afghan people and said his country would continue to remain committed to helping the people build on their success.

Mr. Bernier stated that Canada plans to build a bigger embassy in Kabul to help provide for an even more enhance bilateral relations and better ground for Canada’s long-term engagements to help the people of Afghanistan.

Minister Bernier urged that Canada would stay committed to Afghanistan beyond 2011, a date originally set for their military mission to expire. He said his country would continue to help in the reconstruction process.

President Karzai thanked the people and government of Canada for the important role their men and women in uniform play alongside the US forces in helping Afghan government ensure a better security and reconstruction in Kandahar.