Harper Stays Clear Of Decision On Afghanistan Report

Harper said he accepts the criticisms in the report and takes them seriously.

"This is an extremely difficult mission, we don't believe it's perfect, we never have," he said, adding that no other issue has caused him more headaches and heartaches than the war in Afghanistan.

"We accept the judgment that there are several things that could be done better," he said.

Harper said he will personally be speaking with the leaders of other NATO allies and will share the recommendations of the Manley report with NATO when he attends the April summit.

Harper said the alliance's efforts in southern Afghanistan, where the Canadian troops are stationed, have not been adequate. The alliance's reputation and future credibility hinges on success in Afghanistan, Harper said, and he added that he is "optimistic" that NATO will come through on delivering the help Canada is seeking.