Mr. Speaker, today our Canadian forces are taking part in NATO air operations over the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia.
We have said all along, as the Minister of Foreign Affairs has reiterated today, that we wanted a negotiated settlement to end the crisis in Kosovo, to end the human tragedy. Unfortunately efforts to achieve a peaceful political solution have failed to this point.
Continued Serbian aggression presents a challenge, to NATO's resolve, and the time has come for military action. We are not taking this step lightly but, as the Prime Minister said last night, inaction in the face of oppression only invites further aggression.
The aim of NATO's military action is clear: to prevent further violence by the Yugoslav security forces in Kosovo and to avert a large scale humanitarian disaster. To this end, Canadian forces are working alongside and in partnership with the forces of our NATO allies.
Make no mistake. NATO has assembled a powerful force, one that is fully capable of meeting its military objectives.
Canada has roughly 130 Canadian forces personnel and 6 CF-18 fighter aircraft stationed in Aviano, Italy. All our CF-18s are equipped with air to air missiles and precision guided munitions for a ground attack role.
Our air task force is well equipped and well prepared. Our people have been well trained for the role that they are taking on right now and in the days ahead. Our CF-18s have been in Aviano since June of last year. We also have Canadians with the NATO airborne early warning group in Germany. They are also taking part in the air operations over Kosovo.
This operation is not without risk. The Yugoslav military possesses a sophisticated air defence system, but we are satisfied that the NATO commanders have taken every step to reduce that risk as much as possible. There are escort aircraft, for example, when our jet fighters are out on missions.
I have confidence in our people. They have the equipment, the training, the professionalism and, I said earlier, the dedication to the cause and to their service to Canada. They have what is required to make a significant contribution to the alliance's efforts.
I am sure that all Canadians will join with us in the House in extending our support and encouragement to our CF members involved in this operation. Also, our support and thoughts are with their families in Canada. We wish them a safe return.