Maryam Monsef says "brothers" comment about Taliban was a cultural reference

Canada's women's issues minister faced questions today after she referred to the Taliban as "our brothers" during a news conference on the escalating crisis in Afghanistan.

But Maryam Monsef dismissed the criticism, noting that Canada continues to see the Taliban as a terrorist organization.

Monsef issued a direct appeal to the Taliban today, calling on them to allow safe passage to Kabul airport for anyone wanting to leave Afghanistan.

The Taliban has refused to allow Afghan nationals from passing their checkpoints around the airport.

Under questioning from reporters, Monsef later said the "brothers" comment was a cultural reference, noting that many Muslims refer to each other as brothers and sisters.

Monsef said it was not a softening of Canada's position that the Taliban is a terrorist group.