Canada has promised to exceed $400 million in funds to the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, including a new investment of $47 million, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced on Tuesday. The total amount also includes a new $47 million investment in the judicial systems, government structures, economic resilience, and democratization efforts of the territories.
Canada officially recognized a Palestinian state this week alongside the UK, Australia, and Portugal, with Carney reiterating his support for a two-state solution.
Carney said in a statement that the recognition would counter Israeli measures to prevent a Palestinian state from being established through settlement expansion and the war in Gaza.
Calling for ceasefire, hostage release
Carney also called for an immediate ceasefire and release of the remaining 48 hostages in Gaza, and the mass delivery of humanitarian aid into the Strip.
Carney also said that the recognition would not legitimize or reward terrorism.
US President Donald Trump had said earlier this month that he didn't like Canada's plans to recognize a Palestinian state at a meeting of the United Nations. However, he added that Canada's stance would not be a deal breaker in trade talks with Ottawa.
Michael Starr and Reuters contributed to this report.