“We are proud to see that the Government of Canada, through Minister Baird, is not being fooled by Iran’s machinations,” said Frank Dimant, CEO of B’nai Brith Canada in a comment on Canada’s Foreign Minister, John Baird address to to the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
“The Iranian regime is characterized by its virulent anti-Semitism, denial of the Holocaust and continual threats to regional and world stability as the largest state-sponsor of terror. This latest charm offensive by the Iranian government is merely another attempt to distract from its nuclear ambitions. We hope that other leaders will heed the words of Minister Baird and not be fooled into a false sense of security or complacency.” - stated Frank Dimant in the press release.
In his speech on Monday, Baird said Iran’s recent conciliatory remarks “must be followed up by actions“ and that “some observers see encouraging signs, but sound bites do not remove threats to global security. Kind words, a smile and a charm offensive are not a substitute for real action”.
“Now is the time for the global community to maintain tough sanctions against Iran in order that it take a different path on its nuclear program.”
“The Iranian people want peace. And the Iranian people are suffering great hardship because of their government, said Baird, adding, “Canada wants the Iranian people to be able to access a life of freedom and prosperity for themselves.”
Canada would “welcome and acknowledge reforms in Iran ‘’but only when the actions and changes will prove themselves real.’’
Canada had listed Iran as a State sponsor of terrorism and suspended diplomatic relations with that country.
The minister also stressed that his country ‘’is not neutral on Israel’s right to exist and defend itself.’’
“There can be no bargaining over Israel’s existence,” he declared, adding, “While dialogue is a virtue, there can be no virtuous discussion with anyone wedded to Israel’s destruction.”
“Today, the Jewish people are masters of their own fate, like other nations, in their own sovereign Jewish state. Like other nations, Israel has the right to defend itself, by itself,” he said.
“Canada fundamentally believes peace is achievable. That Palestinians and Israelis and their neighbors can live side by side, in peace and security,’’ he continued.