Thank you, Mr. Rae, for that question.
I have, over the course of the last year and some, travelled on two occasions to the Middle East. I have had the opportunity of meeting with the foreign minister both in Israel as well as here in Canada. Obviously, we've had discussions on our bilateral relations but as well on the Middle East situation.
As you know, we've always been able to put forward Canada's position. Canada's position is one that calls upon the parties to jump-start or at least to sit down and have peace discussions, following the road map in the Annapolis peace process that was put there. We firmly believe in two sovereign states living side by side in harmony, and that is the position that the Government of Canada has put forward.
On the expansion into east Jerusalem, we feel that this is contrary to international law and therefore condemn it. We are very concerned with what is taking place now. Let me tell you how we will deal with this and what we are doing. We are in discussions with like-minded countries as well as with our partner from Israel and the Arab world. I have participated in numerous meetings, whether they be meetings that were held not long ago in Marrakesh—I might be mistaken on that, but I believe it's there—the BMENA meeting, which bridges G8 countries as well as countries from that part of the world. We will be discussing this issue as well, as the G8 foreign ministers meet and gather in Gatineau at the end of the month.
There are initiatives that are undertaken. Canada is extremely supportive of the peace process of course. I have mentioned this before. When we do meet, whether it is Canada or the other countries of the G8 and like-minded countries who are seeking to establish a peace process there, we do push the parties to that position.