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“Canada will deal only with a Palestinian government that renounces terrorism and recognizes Israel’s right to exist,” Hodge added. “We will continue to watch developments closely.”

But the Palestinians’ top diplomat in Ottawa said in an interview that Canada’s support for the new unity government is “essential,” and that “I would like to talk to (Canadian authorities) and see what these concerns (are) so I can relay them to my government.”

Said Hamad said the new Palestinian government will not be responsible for peace negotiations with Israel, but is solely focused on setting up elections in six months’ time and beginning reconstruction of the Gaza Strip.

Hamas took control of the Gaza Strip in 2007. It has been subject to an Israeli blockade since then, and was the scene of fierce fighting between Hamas and Israeli forces in 2008 and 2012.

Canada has committed tens of millions of dollars over the next few years to help the Palestinians with emergency food as well as judicial and security training.

But it has refused to provide any assistance to the Gaza Strip aside from emergency humanitarian aid as long as Hamas is in charge.

Hamad said he has not talked to Canadian officials about what impact the new government’s formation would have on future aid contributions.

The Palestinian diplomat said the new unity government “will put an end to seven years of divisions that actually damaged the Palestinian national cause.”

“I think this unity government is a step toward reaching a peaceful settlement with our partner for peace, Israel, if (Israeli) Prime Minister (Benjamin) Netanyahu chooses to.”

The Israeli government has blasted the unity government and called on other countries not to recognize it.

lberthiaume@ottawacitizen.com

Twitter.com/leeberthiaume