Liberals Call on Canadian Government to Play Constructive Role in Israeli-Palestinian Peace Process

April 11, 2013

LABRADOR CITY, NL– Liberal Leader Bob Rae made the following statement today on the Israeli-Palestinian peace process:

“Liberals welcome U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry’s efforts to renew Israeli-Palestinian peace talks, and we hope that Canada will return to playing an active and constructive role in these negotiations. The Canadian government must find ways to support this process, and should continue to provide political counsel, and technical and humanitarian assistance, to both sides. In particular, we should enhance our role with respect to assistance in the justice sector, including education and training of judges and senior justice officials, which was initiated by my colleague, Irwin Cotler, in his discussions with the Palestinians.

In many conversations with Israeli and Palestinian leaders, I have emphasized the significance of confidence-building measures. It is vital that during these negotiations, neither partner demands something that they know the other cannot deliver. The Liberal Party strongly encourages both sides to negotiate in good faith and with a commitment to achieving a comprehensive resolution.

A successful peace process is in the best interest of everyone in the region and in the international community. Liberals will continue to push the Canadian government to work with our partners to achieve a lasting peace for all.”