The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of International Development has announced $50 million in new support for Palestinians, focusing on urgent humanitarian needs and on economic growth that works for everyone.
Canada’s assistance will respond to the humanitarian needs of the most vulnerable groups in the West Bank and Gaza – particularly women and girls. Canada will provide $12.65 million to respond to food security, health, protection, and economic needs, as well as to support survivors of gender-based violence. Canada will also provide $37.7 million to increase economic opportunities for Palestinians, particularly women and youth, by supporting their economic empowerment, entrepreneurship and employment.
Minister of International Development, Marie-Claude Bibeau said, “Today’s announcement of new funding will help meet the needs of the poorest and most vulnerable Palestinians and reflects the priorities of our Feminist International Assistance Policy: humanitarian action, economic growth that works for everyone, and empowering women and girls. In addition, Canada and Israel will continue to work together on initiatives in developing countries.
While in Israel, Minister Bibeau reinforced Canada’s steadfast and longstanding support for Israel during meetings with representatives of the Israeli government and Israeli civil society. A dialogue with Israel’s Agency for International Development Cooperation emphasized common interests in supporting gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls in developing countries. Discussions also focused on the humanitarian and security situations in Gaza. Minister Bibeau underlined Canada’s commitment to the goal of a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East.
