Ramallah: President Mahmoud Abbas on Thursday received a phone call from Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. During the call, the two leaders discussed current developments in the Palestinian Territory and other regional and international matters of shared interest, while exploring avenues to bolster bilateral relations.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, President Abbas expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Carney for Canada's principled positions based on international legitimacy and law. He acknowledged Canada's significant recognition of the State of Palestine and its role in promoting the two-state solution alongside international partners, as well as Canada's humanitarian and development support.
President Abbas reiterated his commitment to a reform agenda aimed at enhancing governance, transparency, digital transformation, rule of law, justice sector empowerment, updated educational curricula, and a new social protection system. He highlighted Palestine's progress on the democratic front, noting the completion of local elections and preparations for Fatah's Eighth Conference. He also mentioned the upcoming Palestinian National Council elections and pledged to hold parliamentary and presidential elections when conditions permit.
The President emphasized the need to implement the second phase of US President Trump's peace plan and UN Security Council Resolution 2803 to solidify the Gaza ceasefire, facilitate an Israeli withdrawal, and consolidate military control under one legitimate authority. He called for pressure on Israel to cease its aggressive policies in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, halt settlement expansion, and release $5 billion in Palestinian clearance revenues.
President Abbas also stressed the importance of advancing diplomatic ties with Canada, following its recent recognition of Palestine, and condemned regional hostilities by Iran and Israel, advocating for international law and dialogue.
Prime Minister Carney reaffirmed Canada's dedication to the two-state solution and building a viable Palestinian state, while condemning Israeli settlement activities as illegal. He expressed a desire to strengthen bilateral relations and support Palestinian institutional development.
