The prime minister couldn't have asked for a warmer reception at the Souf camp, or a better photo opportunity after a difficult week in the Middle East. He joined a group of men wearing white robes as they performed a traditional dance.

As he toured the area, children waving small Canadian and Jordanian flags rushed around him.

Chretien said his visit is intended to promote international aid for the three million Palestinians who live in refugee camps like Souf.

"Canada is very concerned with the well being of refugees. We have worked hard to improve living conditions," he said.

Canada provided $36,000 to the Souf camp in the past two years, most of it directed at 8,000 children who've spent their whole lives here.

The money went to build a basketball court and soccer field, and to provide counselling for children with learning and physical disabilities.

Akel Salah Alqisi fled here from Bethlehem in 1967. He shares a one-room apartment with his parents, his children and his brother's family in one of the cement barracks. "We must have a big house," he says, "we have now only 100 square metres. This is enough? I don't think so."

Akel says refugees here appreciate what Canada has done, but he says their real hope is for help to return to the homes they left behind more than 30 years ago.