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Public Safety Minister Toews Concludes a Successful Visit to Germany and the Middle East

The Honourable Vic Toews, Minister of Public Safety, has returned from a productive visit to Germany and the Middle East where he met with the Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, as well as German, Israeli and Palestinian officials to discuss public safety matters of mutual interest.

Minister Toews met with Prime Minister Netanyahu while in Israel as part of a broader visit to underline the importance that Canada attaches to bilateral public safety cooperation, particularly in the areas of national security, law enforcement, emergency management and cyber security. During the meeting, Prime Minister Netanyahu expressed a deep appreciation to Canada for the close relationship we share, including in the area of security.

"I was pleased to have had the opportunity to meet with the Prime Minister to talk about issues such as security cooperation," said Minister Toews. "The Government of Canada is committed to protecting the safety and security of Canadians. Building relationships with key international partners are important to our national security."

In Germany and Israel, Minister Toews was able to discuss several public safety issues of importance to Canadians with his counterparts, including cyber security, counter-terrorism, organized crime, emergency management and aviation security.

In the West Bank, Minister Toews reiterated Canada's commitment to supporting security and justice reform. Canada is working closely with the European Union Police Coordinating Office for Palestinian Police Support (EUPOL COPPS) and the United States Security Coordinator (USSC) through Operation Proteus - Canada's military and civilian contingent - on security sector reform initiatives in the West Bank.

"Canada has developed solid bilateral relations in areas touching public safety and will continue to deepen these partnerships to the benefit of our citizens," said Minister Toews.

For more information, please visit the website www.publicsafety.gc.ca