Question Period Note: Canada's vote on Palestinian self-determination

• Canada will always be a steadfast ally and friend of Israel and a friend of the Palestinian people.
• Canada is committed to the goal of a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East, including the creation of a Palestinian state living side-by-side in peace and security with Israel.
• Canada voted in support of this resolution as it addresses a core issue of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Canada strongly supports the international consensus on a two-state solution, so that both sides can have a secure and prosperous future.
• At the same time, Canada maintains its strong opposition to the singling out of Israel for opprobrium at the UN. This is why Canada votes overwhelmingly against these resolutions, including voting No on over a dozen resolutions so far this year.

• On November 19, 2019, Canada changed its vote from “No” to “Yes” on a resolution titled “The Right of the Palestinian people to self-determination” at the UN General Assembly. The resolution was adopted by a vote of 165Y-5N-9A. The only states to vote “No” were the US, Israel, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, and Vanuatu. The resolution was co-sponsored by 129 countries including likeminded (every Member State of the EU, New Zealand, Switzerland, and Norway).
• The resolution reaffirms the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination, including the right to an independent Palestinian state. As such, Canada voted in support of this resolution as it addresses a core issue of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, namely the right of both peoples to determine their own future. Canada strongly supports the international consensus on a two-state solution, so that both sides can have a secure and prosperous future.
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