Pacific Views

Canadian PM puzzled by exclusion from Iraq bidding.

Canadian prime minister-designate Paul Martin says he can't understand why Dubya has barred Canadian companies from bidding on reconstruction projects in Iraq.

There's good reason for Martin to be puzzled by the US action. Canada has committed Can $300 million to the reconstruction effort in Iraq. In addition, a large contingent of Canadian troops is fighting alongside US forces in Afghanistan. However, Washington seems to think it more important that Canada did not support the invasion of Iraq, that the Canadian government has not sent troops to aid in the occupation.

"I understand the importance of these kind of contracts, but this shouldn't be about who gets contracts, who gets business," he [Martin] added.

"It ought to be what is the best thing for the people of Iraq."

Canada is one of several countries excluded from the bidding in order to protect 'the essential security interests of the United States.' Given that the list includes Russia, France, and Germany — three of the strongest opponents of the invasion of Iraq — the list appears to be a way for Washington to punish its opponents abroad. (Dubya's minions have, of course, denied this.)

Via Globe & Mail.