Canada to recognise Palestinian State in September, PM announces

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced on July 30 that Canada will formally recognise the State of Palestine during the 80th United Nations General Assembly this September. The move underscores Canada’s commitment to a two-state solution, envisioning an independent, viable, and sovereign Palestinian state coexisting peacefully alongside Israel.

Speaking to reporters alongside Foreign Minister Anita Anand, Carney emphasized Canada’s longstanding support for a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. “Canada has long been committed to a two-state solution, an independent, viable and sovereign Palestinian state living side by side with the State of Israel in peace and security,” he said, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

Canada’s decision aligns with recent similar declarations by France and the United Kingdom. France has pledged to recognize Palestine this September, while the UK has indicated it will do so if Israel fails to meet certain conditions, including agreeing to a ceasefire in Gaza.

Carney highlighted the Palestinian Authority’s recent commitments as a key factor influencing Canada’s decision. “The Palestinian Authority has committed to lead much needed reform,” he said. The Canadian Prime Minister also noted that Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas assured him of plans to hold long-delayed elections in 2026, from which Hamas will be excluded. Abbas has additionally pledged not to militarise the prospective Palestinian state.

The announcement comes amid escalating international concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, exacerbated by Israel’s blockade limiting the flow of aid and ongoing conflict in the region.

Carney reaffirmed Canada’s unwavering support for Israel’s existence as a sovereign state. “Canada will always steadfastly support Israel’s existence as an independent state in the Middle East, living in peace and security,” he stated. “Any path to lasting peace for Israel also requires a viable and stable Palestinian state and one that recognizes Israel’s inalienable right to security.”

The announcement followed a July 29 discussion between Carney and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on the situation in Gaza, which the Canadian leader referenced during the July 30 press briefing.

By Vugar Khalilov