VICTORIA, B.C.: While Jewish British Columbians prepare to celebrate Rosh Hashanah, a Liberal MP from West Vancouver–Sunshine Coast is backing a petition aimed at ending Canada’s free trade agreement with Israel.
The Canada-Israel Free Trade Agreement has been in place since 1997, with bilateral trade reaching $2.1 billion last year. It is concerning to see a B.C. MP support efforts by a federal politician to dismantle this trade agreement.
As Jewish British Columbians prepare to celebrate Rosh Hashanah, Hon. Kerry-Lynne Findlay, Leader of the Conservative Party of British Columbia, said it is an opportunity to reaffirm support for B.C.’s Jewish community and stand against antisemitism.
“As we enter Rosh Hashanah, we stand with Jewish British Columbians as they celebrate their faith and traditions,” said Findlay. “It’s concerning to see a federal politician engage in divisive tactics at this time.”
Findlay added, “Alienating long-standing trading partners will not help British Columbia or Canada. As a province we depend on strong international relationships and access to markets. We should be looking for ways to expand those opportunities, not tear down longstanding trade relationships with democratic allies,” said Findlay.
“This is not an abstract issue for British Columbians. MP Pat Weiler represents West Vancouver–Sunshine Coast. At a time when Jewish Canadians are facing growing antisemitism, elected representatives should think carefully about the message they send when they support efforts to isolate longstanding partners like Israel,” said MLA Heather Maahs, Interim Leader of the Official Opposition.
“Meaningful relationships, whether between people or nations, are built through years of trust and cooperation. Canada and Israel have been friends and partners for decades, and we should continue working together in a spirit of mutual respect and shared opportunity,” said Lynne Block, MLA for West Vancouver-Capilano.
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