The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, today announced the appointment of Arif Lalani as Canada’s Ambassador to Afghanistan. This appointment is effective immediately.



“Mr. Lalani brings a wealth of experience and a track record of leadership to his new post, and will ensure that Canada continues to make an important contribution to helping the government and people of Afghanistan rebuild their country,” said Minister MacKay.



Mr. Lalani succeeds David Sproule. Minister MacKay thanked Mr. Sproule for his outstanding dedication as Canada’s Ambassador to Afghanistan since 2005, and wished him continued success in his next assignment. Mr. Sproule will serve in an advisory capacity to the Associate Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Interdepartmental Coordinator for Afghanistan, drawing upon his considerable in-country experience and understanding of Canada’s integrated approach in Afghanistan.



In addition to making the Head of Mission position in Kabul one of Canada’s most senior diplomatic assignments, Canada’s diplomatic and development presence in the country is also being increased. The Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade and the Canadian International Development Agency are preparing to deploy additional personnel to Afghanistan in the coming months.



Canada, along with 36 other nations, is in Afghanistan at the request of the democratically elected Government of Afghanistan, and is part of the UN-sanctioned mission, led by NATO, to help build a stable, democratic and self-sufficient society.