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Dear Neighbour,
As the war in Israel and Gaza continues, I have been working with the Prime Minister, our Minister of Foreign Affairs, and members of Jewish and Muslim caucus on how we can use our place as a middle power to support peaceful dialogue in the region and here at home. Last week, I hosted the annual “Jewish-Muslim Liberal MP Christmas Dinner”, where we came together as friends in a time when we might have disagreements on policy issues. Again, I want to highlight the importance for Canadians to listen to one another and respect where we have differences. Often, we are not as far apart as it might seem at the outset. In my conversations with community members, I hear common themes of wanting to see lives protected and the need for people in Israel and Gaza to see a future where they can live in safety.
Yesterday, our government issued a joint statement with Australia and New Zealand. I had input into this statement, and I adopt it as my own. Please do read it in its entirety as there was a lot of thought that went into each word.
Canada also voted in support of a UN resolution yesterday demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. I find it troubling that an amendment to the resolution that condemned Hamas was voted down by the member states of the United Nations. While the resolution calls for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, I am more comfortable with the wording of our statement that emphasized that a sustainable ceasefire cannot be one-sided and that there is no role for Hamas in the future governance of Gaza.
Yours,
Julie
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