Diplomacy, peacekeeping cuts weaken Carney’s middle-power vision: South African envoy

High Commissioner Rieaz Shaik expressed disappointment over Canada's decision to reduce its peacekeeping forces in Africa, stating it contradicts the Carney government's commitment to fostering collaboration among middle powers. Shaik criticized the budget cuts, which he believes weaken Canada's commitment to peace in Africa. The federal government announced a 15 percent budget cut, reducing peacekeeping operations and withdrawing peacekeepers from Congo and South Sudan.

Shaik praised Canada's role in ending apartheid but warned that withdrawing peacekeepers could encourage other countries to do the same. He emphasized that Canada's voice matters and its decision to withdraw from global security issues could justify other powers pulling out as well. Shaik also criticized the reversal of a decision to strengthen diplomatic ties with South Africa, suggesting it undermines Canada's strategic engagement on the continent.