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December 22, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with Minister Benny Gantz, a member of Israel’s War Cabinet.
Prime Minister Trudeau reiterated Canada’s support for Israel’s right to defend itself in accordance with international law, including international humanitarian law. He unequivocally condemned Hamas, its brutal terrorist attacks against Israel, and its unacceptable treatment of hostages. He called for the immediate and unconditional release of all remaining hostages.
Prime Minister Trudeau stressed the importance of the protection of civilians and ensuring safe and unimpeded access to life-saving humanitarian aid for civilians in Gaza. The Prime Minister called for continued, significant humanitarian pauses and expressed support for urgent international efforts toward a sustainable ceasefire, underscoring that this cannot be one-sided. Hamas must stop using civilians as human shields, lay down its arms, and can play no role in the future governance of Gaza.
The Prime Minister and the Minister discussed the Middle East peace process and the importance of continuing to work toward a lasting peace in the region. They reaffirmed the strong bond between Israel and Canada and agreed to remain in contact as the situation continues to evolve.
Associated Links
- Canada-Israel relations
- Statement by the Prime Minister on attacks against Israel
- Canada’s response to the crisis in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip
December 22, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with the Foreign Secretary of the United Kingdom, David Cameron.
Prime Minister Trudeau congratulated Foreign Secretary Cameron on his new role and looked forward to continued close collaboration with the United Kingdom on foreign policy issues.
The Prime Minister and the Foreign Secretary discussed the situation in the Middle East. They unequivocally condemned Hamas’ terrorist attacks against Israel and expressed support for Israel’s right to defend itself in accordance with international law, including international humanitarian law. They expressed deep concern over the ongoing dire humanitarian situation in Gaza.
Prime Minister Trudeau also expressed support for urgent international efforts toward a sustainable ceasefire, but underscored that this cannot be one-sided, and that Hamas must stop using civilians as human shields and lay down its arms. He reiterated that Hamas cannot play a role in the future governance of Gaza. The Prime Minister and the Foreign Secretary reaffirmed the importance of renewing efforts toward a two-state solution to secure lasting peace in the region.
The Prime Minister and the Foreign Secretary condemned Russia’s ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine, and reaffirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine for as long as it takes.
Prime Minister Trudeau and Foreign Secretary Cameron highlighted the strong relationship between Canada and the United Kingdom, and emphasized the two countries will continue working together to advance shared priorities and tackle global issues.
Associated Links
- Canada-United Kingdom relations
- Canada’s response to the crisis in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip
- Canada’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine
December 21, 2023
Toronto, Ontario
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the Mayor of Toronto, Olivia Chow, to discuss key areas for co-operation.
The Prime Minister and the Mayor noted their commitment to a continued partnership between the Government of Canada and the City of Toronto on ambitious and progressive plans in the areas of housing, public transit, and the environment.
The leaders discussed the agreement between the federal government and the City of Toronto announced earlier in the day. Under the Housing Accelerator Fund, over $471 million will go toward eliminating barriers to build more homes, faster in Toronto. This agreement will help fast-track nearly 12,000 new housing units over the next three years and spur the construction of more than 53,000 homes over the next decade.
The Prime Minister and the Mayor expressed their desire to keep working together on the pressures Toronto has been facing to meet the needs of asylum claimants and refugees and of people experiencing homelessness. The leaders also reiterated their shared interest in continued investments to advance important public transit projects in Toronto.
Associated Links
- Removing barriers to build more homes, faster in Toronto, Ontario
- Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Mayor of Toronto Olivia Chow
