Non-Proliferation and Disarmament (Non-Nuclear)
Since Canadian soldiers were among the earliest victims of chemical warfare during the First World War, Canada attaches high importance to the Chemical Weapons Convention, which comprehensively and verifiably bans an entire category of weapons of mass destruction.
Canada also highly values the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention, the first global treaty abolishing a class of weapons of mass destruction, which establishes international norms against the use of biological agents.
As a partner country within the Missile Technology Control Regime Canada ensures strict controls of missile-related technology and contributes to the fight against the proliferation of missiles to countries of concern.
Canada is mindful of the serious threat to civil aviation posed by the unauthorized acquisition of Man-portable air defence systems (MANPADS) by criminals, terrorists and other non-state actors. We are taking steps to counter the emerging MANPADS threat to the international community.
Canada strongly supports efforts to negotiate a binding global Arms Trade Treaty under the auspices of the United Nations. We are active in implementing the UN Programme of Action for Small Arms and Light Weapons, and fund a number of projects to promote its effective implementation.
As a space faring nation Canada has a strong role to play in ensuring continued open access to space, with the many tangible benefits it brings to Canadians' daily lives. We are working closely with our partners to ensure that the peaceful uses of outer space are not jeopardized by a potential arms race in space.
Canada has world leading private companies, government agencies and non-profit organizations operating remote sensing satellites, telemetry, tracking and command stations, and ground receiving stations for the supply of high performance remote sensing data, products and services to domestic and international clients. The Minister of Foreign Affairs licenses Canadian remote sensing satellites under the Remote Sensing Space Systems Act, and its associated Regulations, to promote Canada's international competitiveness in this economic sector while protecting Canada's security, defence and foreign policy interests. Within the Department, the Remote Sensing Space Systems Section processes the licences and develops policy.
