In just a few days I will have served as Minister of National Defence for exactly two years. It's been a real privilege to get to know the men and women of the Canadian Forces. One of the greatest lessons I have learned is that perceptions can often be a long way from reality. Today I would like to talk about some of the myths. But perhaps more than ever, our world is complex and changing.
Power is more diffuse.
Threats are more diverse. More countries are becoming nuclear-capable. We face new dangers from chemical and biological weapons. Increasingly sophisticated weapons and weapon delivery systems are getting into the hands of rogue regimes and terrorist organizations. A balanced force of Regulars and Reservists who work together both at home and abroad.