Canada suspends PA aid
2006-03-29 21:44
Toronto - Canada announced on Wednesday that it was suspending assistance to the Palestinian Authority because the new Hamas-led government refuses to renounce violence and recognise Israel.
Hamas formally took power on Wednesday, with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas swearing in its 24-member cabinet, including 14 ministers who served time in Israeli prisons.
Hamas and new Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh insist they will not soften the militant group's violent ideology or formally recognise Israel.
Foreign affairs minister Peter MacKay said in a statement that Canada therefore had no choice but to suspend assistance and decline any contact with the new Hamas cabinet.
- AP