Posted on 02/16/2006 9:28:38 AM PST by West Coast Conservative
Canada will only provide aid to the new Palestinian government if the leadership recognizes Israel and renounces all forms of violence, Prime Minister Stephen Harper said.
"Future assistance to any new Palestinian government will be reviewed against that governments commitment to the principles of non-violence, recognition of Israel and acceptance of previous agreements and obligations, including the roadmap" to peace, Harper said.
The prime minister made his comments following a telephone call with the president of the Palestinian Authority, Mahmud Abbas, but his message was clearly aimed at the Islamic group Hamas, the winner of January 25 legislative elections.
"Canada remains committed to the goal of a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East, and the creation of a sovereign and viable Palestinian state living side by side in peace and security with Israel," Harper said.
"We commend President Abbas for his leadership and commitment to the peace process in the Middle East. During this interim period, President Abbas has Canada's full support, although our government will continue to review the situation on an ongoing basis."
Hamas, responsible for most of the anti-Israeli suicide attacks during the current Palestinian intifada, or uprising, has refused to disarm and espoused the destruction of Israel as part of its charter.
Both the United States and the European Union were threatening to curtail funds unless the radical Islamists renounce violence and recognise Israel's right to exist.
Good for Canada. Nice to have a conservative at the helm up there. We should take an equally strong position against Hamas.
The bad news is that the conservatives didn't win by a clear majority. Keep trying.
...and he won't back down from his commitment.
doesnt matter if the Conservatives won by a clear majority or not...
imho 90% of Canadians will support Harper's decision.
Gotta love Harper!
Canada Ping!
Please FReepmail me to get on or off this Canada ping list.
Way to go Harper!
I would love to fight an election on this issue. Especially against a leaderless liberal party. Bring it on.
Doh! I meant World Bank. I should get to bed. :)
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