Prime Minister Mark Carney has pledged an unprecedented acceleration of investment in Canada's armed forces if his ruling Liberal Party wins the upcoming general election on April 28.
Amid ongoing pressure from the U.S. President, who has criticized Canada for its defense spending, Carney emphasized that "our sovereignty faces the greatest threats in generations." He noted the increasing division and danger in the world and assured that this plan would strengthen Canada both domestically and internationally.
During a televised press conference at a shipyard in Halifax, Carney stated, "We're defending our borders, our sovereignty, our minerals, our water, our land, our way of life." He did not disclose specific figures regarding government spending but announced intentions to purchase new submarines and heavy icebreakers, as well as to modernize Canada’s outdated military procurement system.
Carney indicated that the government would also reform the recruitment process to attract new military personnel and provide pay raises for all serving members, without elaborating on the specifics.
Under pressure from successive U.S. administrations, Canada increased its defense spending last year and aims to align its military expenditures with NATO targets by 2030. Current opinion polls suggest that while the Liberals may secure more seats than the Conservative opposition, they may fall short of achieving a stable majority government.