Canadian Islamic Congress Press Release (en francais)

Stephen Harper was pretty clear in his answer and I support him 100%.

Transcript of his first press conference
Question: May I ask a question about Hamas? They've been elected in Palestinian territories. Will the Canadian government recognize them?

Harper: I'll address this in more detail when I take office, Bob, but let me just say as you know, we've always maintained that we support a secure Israel and a democratic Palestine but for a nation to be truly democratic, that nation must renounce any use of terrorism.

THE CANADIAN ISLAMIC CONGRESS
MEDIA COMMUNIQUE

January 27, 2006

CANADIAN ISLAMIC CONGRESS URGES NEW PM TO RESPECT DEMOCRATIC RESULTS IN PALESTINIAN ELECTIONS -- IRA LEADERS AND EVEN FORMER ISRAELI PMs ONCE LABELLED TERRORISTS; HAMAS VICTORY A NEW PHASE IN MIDDLE EAST HISTORY

"Palestinians are to be congratulated for holding their recent elections in
a free, fair, and democratic manner," the Canadian Islamic Congress said in
a short statement issued today.

CIC noted that more than 77 % percent of eligible Palestinian voters cast
ballots in this week's elections, which saw a surprise upset in favour of
Hamas party.

CIC is urging the new government of Canadian PM-elect Stephen Harper to
respect the results of a vote that could soon see Hamas in political
control of Gaza and the West Bank.

"Canada should adopt a balanced policy in the region in order to work
towards, and ultimately achieve, peace with justice," the CIC statement
continued.

"Not to deal with the new Palestinian government will be a serious setback
to the peace movement and serve only to escalate the violence. The Irish
Republican Army's political wing proved itself competent to govern without
continuing armed violence; likewise, several former Israeli prime ministers
were once labelled terrorists. Hamas should be given the same chance to
establish itself in this new phase of Middle East history. We believe that
bringing Hamas into the legitimate political process and opening
constructive dialogue will help to moderate its policies."

CONTACTS:

Dr. Mohamed Elmasry
(519) 746-4107 (O)
(519) 498-1350 (Cell)
e-mail: np@canadianislamiccongress.com

Mrs. Wahida Valiante
(905) 771-1023
e-mail: nvp@canadianislamiccongress.com

And just in case, here is some opinions from other world leaders.