Julian Fantino, March 7, 2012, in Woodbridge. (QMI Agency/STAN BEHAL)

Canada is pulling its weight in the French-led mission in Mali and our help is "well appreciated," says International Co-operation Minister Julian Fantino.

But the Conservative government will tread carefully before it makes any more decisions on further assistance.

"Obviously this is an ever evolving situation. We want to be sure the decision taken is absolutely the right one. We're going to be very cautious, very diligent," Fantino told reporters during a conference call Wednesday.

Canada is sending a C-17 transport plane to airlift troops and equipment to Mali, where French and African troops are battling Islamic militants in the north, until Feb. 15. On Tuesday, Fantino pledged an additional $13 million in humanitarian aid for the west African country.