Canadian foreign policy towards the Middle East, especially the Arab-Israeli conflict

The Ibrahim Abu-Lughod Institute of International Studies and the Master Program of International Studies in cooperation with the Department of Political Science / Faculty of Law and Public Administration, organized, on Tuesday, April 11, 2023, a public lecture entitled: "Canadian foreign policy towards the Middle East, especially the Arab-Israeli conflict", presented by the Canadian representative to Palestine, Mr. David da Silva, Dr. Ibrahim Rabaia moderated the lecture.

Mr. Da Silva started the lecture by providing an overview of the priorities of Canadian foreign policy in general, such as enhancing the presence of women in societies, working in an international system based on international institutions and organizations and international law, in an effort to enhance multiple faceted participation and resolve differences through peaceful means, diplomatic means and negotiations, Among the determinants and capabilities that Canada stems from in international relations and foreign policy.

Mr. Da Silva referred to the Canadian foreign policy towards the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, which has been based for nearly 20 years on supporting the peace process, initiatives in the Middle East, and Palestinian-Israeli negotiations. While Canada and the Palestinians have a close and ancient relationship, which has been strengthened by the presence of Palestinian and Arab communities in Canada for decades.

Mr. Da Silva spoke about Canadian support for the Palestinians through financial aid to the Palestinian National Authority and allocating financial aid for agricultural programs, vocational training, and development projects and programs in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. In addition to providing aid to the Palestinian refugees through the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).