Ottawa – Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, recently held a bilateral discussion with Eli Cohen, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Israel. Minister Joly and Minister Cohen discussed Canada and Israel’s strong, multidimensional and enduring friendship, driven by close people-to-people ties as Canada is home to the world’s third largest Jewish diaspora. Minister Joly congratulated Israel on its upcoming 75th anniversary and highlighted this important milestone.
Canada and Israel’s relationship is also rooted in a history of shared values. Minister Joly underscored Canada’s support of democracy, the rule of law and the institutions that uphold them. The ministers discussed strengthening efforts in the face of shared global security concerns, including Russia’s illegal full-scale invasion of Ukraine, as well as security threats by the Iranian regime.
Minister Joly reiterated Canada’s steadfast commitment to the people of Israel’s right to live in peace and security. She conveyed her condolences regarding recent attacks against Israeli civilians, including the March 9 terrorist attack in Tel Aviv. The Minister reaffirmed Canada’s unequivocal condemnation of all acts of terrorism and of violence against civilians.
Minister Joly voiced Canada’s deep concerns over the recent escalation of violence in Israel and the West Bank and stressed the need to engage in meaningful actions to restore calm and ease tensions. Canada has a longstanding policy against unilateral actions that jeopardize efforts for peace, including the expansion and legalization of settlements.
Minister Joly reiterated Canada’s commitment to the goal of a just, comprehensive, and lasting peace in the Middle East, including the creation of a Palestinian state living side by side in peace and security with Israel. She also reaffirmed that Canada stands ready to support all efforts for a two-state solution.