Feds Welcome Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu
Ottawa – Friday March 2, 2012, marked the beginning of a three day visit to Canada by Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu. He was greeted at the airport by government officials including Pierre Poilievre, MP for Nepean-Carleton.
“Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his country are great friends of Canada and our government welcomes him here,” said Poilievre. “This visit will provide our government with great opportunities to discuss the economic and security issues that both our nations face.”
Canada and Israel enjoy strong and multifaceted bilateral relations, which have been enhanced in recent years through increased cooperation in several areas, including public security, defence, trade and investment, and the increased frequency of ministerial visits. Canada values its long-standing relationship with Israel, which is based on shared values, common interests and strong political, economic, cultural and social ties. There are approximately 20,000 Canadians living in Israel. The Canadian Jewish community acts as an important bridge between Canada and Israel.
Support for Israel and its right to live in peace and security with its neighbours has been Canadian policy since 1948. Canada is committed to the goal of a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East, including the creation of a viable and independent Palestinian state living side by side in peace and security with Israel as a result of a negotiated agreement.
Pierre Poilievre, MP for Nepean-Carleton, greets Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu upon his arrival to Canada Friday morning.