Canada and Qatar have expressed condemnation over the disturbing rise in Islamophobia, antisemitism, and anti-Arab discrimination, highlighting the impact it is having on Arab, Muslim, and Jewish communities around the world.
The condemnation was made when Canada’s Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau spoke with the Emir of Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, about the ongoing situation in the Middle East over the weekend.
The Prime Minister expressed his appreciation for Qatari efforts to secure the release of hostages and ensure the exit of foreign nationals from Gaza while underscored the need for the immediate release of all hostages held in Gaza.
Both leaders exchanged views on the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, including the need to ensure safe and unimpeded access to life-saving humanitarian aid for civilians in Gaza and Trudeau also underscored the need for humanitarian pauses.
Canada’s Prime Minister reiterated his condemnation of the brutal attacks perpetrated by the terrorist organization Hamas against Israel, and underscored that Hamas does not represent the Palestinian people nor their legitimate aspirations.
He emphasized Canada’s support for the right of both Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace and security, and the need to renew efforts toward a two-state solution to secure lasting peace in the region.
Trudeau thanked the Emir for Qatar’s leadership in facilitating the return of abducted children to Ukraine.
The two leaders agreed to continue to work closely in support of Ukraine’s Peace formula, notably in the working group on the release of prisoners and deported persons that Canada will co-chair and agreed to remain in close and regular contact as the situation evolves.