Canada calls for special UN envoy to Afghanistan

After 30 bilateral meetings last week on the subject, Canada's foreign minister today addressed the United Nations General Assembly and called for the appointment of a "special UN envoy to Afghanistan." Not clear exactly how this post would differ from the SRSG. According to reports, would be "modeled on the work of former British prime minister Tony Blair in the Middle East peace process."

Canada issues Afghan rally cry, (Globe and Mail Update) by Tenille Bonoguore, Oct 2, 2007:Foreign Affairs Minister Maxime Bernier issued a rallying cry Tuesday to the United Nations, calling on member nations to support the bid to appoint a special UN envoy for Afghanistan…

Canadian Foreign Minister Maxime Bernier addresses the 62nd session of the United Nations General Assembly at UN headquarters Tuesday in New York City. Leaders and diplomats from around the world are in New York City for the United Nations yearly General Assembly…

Canada is calling for the appointment of a high-level Afghan envoy, to be modeled on the work of former British prime minister Tony Blair in the Middle East peace process.…Mr. Bernier said the efforts of about 60 countries and international groups in Afghanistan are commendable, but a new high-profile envoy for the NATO effort should be able to attract more help and better co-ordinate efforts. The UN's role in Afghanistan is the world body's “most important special political mission,” he said. Bernier has talked about the idea in some 30 bilateral meetings at the UN last week.