Hon. Daryl S. Fridhandler: I am a Canadian Jewish Zionist who has long believed in the possibility of a two-state solution where both Palestinians and Israelis live in peace, security and mutual recognition. I have had the good fortune to discuss this subject with former Israeli prime minister and former mayor of Jerusalem Ehud Olmert, who is a strong proponent of a negotiated two-state solution.
The Government of Canada’s recognition of the Palestinian state was presented as a step forward in advancing a two-state solution. Such recognition was predicated on reforms within the Palestinian Authority, democratic elections in 2026 and the exclusion of Hamas from any future governing role. We have not seen any meaningful steps taken to achieve these reforms.
Mr. Abbas, now in the twenty-first year of his four-year elected mandate, recently postponed elections to September 2027. “Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me.”
Can the Government Representative in the Senate explain how the Government of Canada currently views its recognition of a Palestinian state under these changed circumstances?
Hon. Pierre Moreau (Government Representative in the Senate): Thank you, Senator Fridhandler. For more than 70 years, successive Canadian governments have held the position that the two-state solution is the way forward for long-term peace in the region while also addressing Israel’s legitimate security concerns. The recognition of a Palestinian state by the Canadian government is a decision firmly aligned with the principles of self-determination and fundamental human rights reflected in the United Nations Charter.
To your question specifically, the Minister of Foreign Affairs has reiterated in a joint statement with allies that Hamas cannot play a role in the future governance of Palestine. Furthermore, the minister said she deeply regrets their decision to postpone the election and that Canada remains available to support democratic initiatives.
Senator Fridhandler: Senator Moreau, the success of any negotiated two-state resolution will ultimately depend on leaders who possess both the authority to negotiate and the legitimacy to secure support for any agreement reached. Which specific Palestinian individuals, institutions or organizations does the Government of Canada believe are currently capable of acting authoritatively on behalf of the Palestinian people in negotiations concerning the future of a Palestinian state?
Senator Moreau: Canada is convinced that strengthening the Palestinian government is essential for continuing to build the institutional foundation for a viable two-state solution, which is the only path to lasting peace and security for both Israel and Palestine. However, it is not the role of Canada or of any foreign state to interfere with the process of identifying who has electoral legitimacy as representatives or as head of state. Nonetheless, the government has been clear that Hamas cannot play any role in such democratic initiatives and continues to be committed to holding elections.