Canada's Conservative government introduced a confidence motion Friday on extending the country's mission in Afghanistan to 2011.
"The motion presents a clear choice to the members of the House of Commons -- strengthen the military mission in Afghanistan or abandon the commitment we have made to the people of Afghanistan and our international allies," said government House leader Peter Van Loan.
The motion will be voted in March. If it fails, the government will fall, triggering a snap election.
The government's move came after an independent panel suggested that Canada will sustain its troops in Afghanistan if NATO provides 1,000 more combat troops to Kandahar area and more equipment is provided for Canadian soldiers.
The current mission will end in February 2009. A total of 78 Canadian soldiers have died in Afghanistan.
Among the three opposition parties, the New Democratic Party (NDP) and the Bloc Quebecois both wanted an immediate withdrawal. The Liberals will only allow the troops to stay if they shift to reconstruction and humanitarian work from fighting against the Taliban.
Liberal leader Stephen Dion said Friday his party would propose amendments to the plan, stressing the combat part of the mission must end next year.
Polls have suggested about half of Canadians want the troops to come back on schedule.
Source: Xinhua
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