NDP Motion on Palestinian Statehood Passes After Major Amendments
A Last-Minute Deal Between the Liberals and the NDP
OTTAWA - A last-minute deal between the Liberals and the NDP agreeing to amend a controversial motion to recognize a Palestinian state saw the motion pass in the House of Commons on Monday night.
Background
The motion from the federal New Democrats initially called on Canada to recognize the State of Palestine. However, the motion faced widespread criticism from the Conservative government and some Liberal MPs.
The Conservatives argued that the motion was premature and would damage Canada's relationship with Israel. Some Liberal MPs also expressed concerns about the motion, saying that it was not in line with the government's foreign policy.
Amendments
In order to address these concerns, the NDP agreed to amend the motion. The amended motion no longer calls for the federal government to officially recognize the State of Palestine.
Instead, the amended motion calls on the government to "support a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with a secure and recognized State of Palestine living side-by-side with Israel in peace and security."
Vote
The amended motion passed the House of Commons by a vote of 229 to 44. The Conservatives voted against the motion, while the Liberals and the NDP voted in favor.
Heather McPherson, the foreign affairs critic for the NDP, said that she was pleased with the outcome of the vote.
"This is a historic day for Canada," McPherson said. "We have sent a clear message to the world that we support a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict."
Conclusion
The passage of the amended NDP motion on Palestinian statehood is a significant development in Canada's foreign policy.
The motion sends a clear message to the world that Canada supports a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It also reflects the growing international consensus on the need for a Palestinian state.
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