Mr. Speaker, yesterday Canada took an important and historic step, formally recognizing the sovereign state of Palestine. I would like to thank the Prime Minister, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the millions of Canadians who told their government how important this is to them. All people have the right to self-determination, and Palestine deserves to take its place among the nations of the world. This is an important advancement of Canada's long-standing support for a two-state solution, where a free and democratic Palestine lives alongside a free and democratic Israel in peace and security.
We must not lose sight of the genocide happening in Gaza and the illegal occupation of the West Bank. There must be a ceasefire. Humanitarian aid must reach those in need. Hostages and prisoners must be freed. There must be a two-way arms embargo. All those responsible for war crimes, including genocide, must face justice.