OTTAWA, Canada, Sept 22, 2025 – In a landmark decision, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced late Monday that Canada has formally recognized the State of Palestine, marking the first G7 nation to take this step. The announcement, posted on X by @MarkJCarney at 21:12 UTC on September 22, 2025, includes a link to a live statement, signaling a significant shift in Canada’s Middle East policy.
The recognition aligns with a coordinated effort by the UK, Australia, and up to 10 other nations, announced ahead of a special UN conference in New York on September 22, 2025. This move aims to preserve the possibility of a two-state solution amid growing tensions in the region. “Canada does so as part of a coordinated international effort to preserve the possibility of a two-state solution,” Carney stated, emphasizing the decision’s alignment with Canada’s long-standing policy supporting self-determination and human rights.
The decision follows a recent Angus Reid Institute survey, released on August 5, 2025, which revealed that a majority of Canadians support recognizing Palestine, even if it complicates trade negotiations with the United States under President Donald Trump. This public backing comes as Carney’s government navigates a diplomatic reset with India and increased defense spending, including continued support for Ukraine in the Russo-Ukrainian War.
The recognition also occurs against a backdrop of fears that Israel might annex parts of the West Bank, prompting Western allies to push for reforms within the Palestinian Authority.
Domestically, Carney’s Liberal government has been active on multiple fronts. Earlier this year, the One Canadian Economy Act was passed to remove federal barriers to internal trade and expedite infrastructure projects, reflecting economic priorities alongside this diplomatic initiative. However, the decision has already sparked controversy, with some Canadians on X criticizing the lack of public consultation and labeling it a unilateral move by Carney’s administration.
As the international community watches closely, this bold diplomatic step by Canada is set to shape discussions at the UN conference and beyond. Stay tuned for further developments as reactions pour in from global leaders and the Canadian public.