Paris – Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, participated in the International Humanitarian Conference for the Civilian Population in Gaza held on the sidelines of the 2023 Paris Peace Forum. While there, Minister Hussen announced that Canada is allocating $20 million in funding, from the already announced $60 million, for humanitarian assistance to address urgent needs in Gaza, the West Bank and neighbouring areas. This funding supports United Nations and Red Cross appeals and is being allocated as follows:
- International Committee of the Red Cross: $2.5 million
- UNICEF: $2 million
- United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs: $2 million
- United Nations Population Fund: $3 million
- United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East: $6.5 million
- World Food Programme: $3 million
- World Health Organization: $1 million
Canada reiterates its call for the protection of civilians, humanitarian workers and civilian infrastructure, in accordance with international humanitarian law. Canada also continues to urge all parties to facilitate the rapid and unimpeded passage of humanitarian relief for civilians in need.
“Canada’s participation in this conference reflects our continued engagement in and response to the ongoing humanitarian needs in Gaza and the West Bank. This is an important step to assist those affected by this grave humanitarian situation, while we keep working on not just getting aid in and people out, but also on de-escalating this situation.” – Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development