Government of Canada
Immigration Canada

Canada's security is deeply intertwined with that of our allies and international partners. The Government of Canada maintains strong defence relations around the world to promote global peace, stability, and the rule of law. Through our participation in international organizations and our bilateral partnerships, we work together to address common security challenges and support a secure and prosperous international environment.

Participation in NATO and NORAD

Canada is a founding member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and is committed to the principle of collective defence. We participate in NATO operations and contribute to the alliance's collective security efforts. We also partner with the United States in the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) to provide aerospace warning and control for North America. These partnerships are the cornerstone of our national defence policy and ensure that we can effectively address threats to our continent and the North Atlantic region.

Support for Peacekeeping Operations

Canada has a long and proud history of contributing to United Nations (UN) peacekeeping missions. We provide military personnel, equipment, and expertise to help maintain peace and security in conflict-affected regions around the world. Our support for peacekeeping is part of our broader commitment to the UN and to promoting human rights and the rule of law globally. We continue to work with international partners to ensure that peacekeeping missions are effective and have the resources they need to succeed.

Bilateral and Regional Partnerships

In addition to our participation in international organizations, Canada maintains numerous bilateral and regional defence partnerships. We work closely with our partners in the Indo-Pacific, Europe, and the Americas to address regional security issues, conduct joint training exercises, and share information on common threats. These partnerships allow us to build trust and cooperation with other countries and enhance our collective ability to maintain international security.

Defence Cooperation and Capacity Building

Canada also provides assistance to other countries to help them build their own defence and security capabilities. This includes providing training for military personnel, sharing expertise on issues like disaster response and border security, and supporting the development of professional and accountable military forces. Our capacity-building efforts help promote stability in fragile regions and reduce the risk of conflict, contributing to a more secure world for all Canadians.