In an unprecedented diplomatic venture, the National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM) and its delegates embarked on a significant trip to Jordan, accompanied by Canadian Members of Parliament. The focal point of their journey was a meeting with the Canadian Ambassador, Tarik Ali Khan, at the Canadian Embassy in Jordan.
During their visit to the embassy, NCCM and delegates engaged in profound discussions with various civil societies. Canadian MPs attended bilateral meetings with Ambassador Tarik Ali Khan, aimed at gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by these societies, particularly in supporting Palestinian refugees. The dialogue focused on the persistent violence throughout the West Bank, including Jerusalem, providing context to the multifaceted issues at hand.
One of the highlights of the delegation’s trip was a tour of the UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency) camps in Jordan. This visit offered firsthand insights into the educational and healthcare services available to Palestinian refugees, showcasing the vital role UNRWA plays amid growing challenges. The delegation witnessed the agency’s efforts to provide essential services despite the increasing population and displacement issues.
The delegation’s journey also took them to the Jabal El-Hussein Refugee Camp, a home to a substantial number of Palestinian refugees for over two decades. The visit shed light on the strained living conditions within the camp, emphasizing the challenges faced by residents due to limited resources, services, and supplies. A poignant moment occurred during the visit when COO Omar Khamissa interacted with a family residing in the camp since 1967, highlighting the enduring struggles of Palestinian refugees in Jordan.
Heather McPherson, a Member of Parliament, shared her profound reflections on visiting Jenin, a refugee camp in the West Bank. She described the deeply painful experience of witnessing institutionalized and systematic violence against its residents, coupled with a continuous threat of violence and subsequent fear. McPherson expressed her anguish at the loss of opportunity and dignity faced by the community in Jenin, emphasizing the urgent need for a global response to halt the violence in the West Bank.
The NCCM delegation’s journey stands as a powerful testament to their commitment to understanding and addressing the complex issues faced by Palestinian refugees, with the hope of fostering positive change on the global stage.
