In reaction to government’s announcement on Palestinian statehood, NDP critic for Foreign Affairs Heather McPherson issued the following statement:

“Today’s announcement by the federal government that Canada will recognize the State of Palestine at the United Nations in September is a welcome step forward — and it is thanks to the hundreds of thousands of Canadians who have spoken up for justice and peace over the past 21 months. This decision reflects the power of the people to push governments to do the right thing.

On behalf of New Democrats, I congratulate those many Canadians — especially members of the Palestinian Canadian community — on this hard-won victory, following months of grief, horror, and frustration at Canada’s inaction.

For nearly two years, New Democrats have urged the Liberals to do the right thing and recognize Palestine as a step toward a two-state solution that benefits everyone in the region — including Israelis and Palestinians. Experts agree: the time for recognition is now. Many of Canada’s former ambassadors agree: the time is now. The majority of Canadians agree: the time is now.

It should not have taken the Liberals this long to make this decision — and it should not take until September to implement it. Under international law, the State of Palestine already exists, and the majority of the world — 148 countries — recognize it.

The Liberals should recognize the State of Palestine today – while also taking the political action necessary to end Canada’s complicity in this genocide, including imposing an arms embargo and sanctions on Netanyahu and his government and suspending the Canada-Israel Free Trade Agreement.”