Vietnam calls for promoted dialogue and negotiations on Israeli-Palestinian issue
The nation has called on all concerned parties involved in the Israeli-Palestinian issue to exercise maximum restraint, protect civilians, especially women and children, and focus on holding dialogues and negotiations.
During a meeting of the UN Security Council (UNSC) held on August 30 to discuss the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian issue, Minister Counsellor Nguyen Phuong Tra, deputy permanent representative of Vietnam to the UN, expressed concern about the recent increase in violence. Indeed, there have been growing numbers of casualties which threatens to escalate into a heated conflict.
Minister Counsellor Tra continued to show concern about Israel's continued plans to expand settlements in the West Bank, asserting that these activities run contrary to international law and UN resolutions.
The country therefore reaffirms its strong support for the just struggle of the Palestinian people, especially for a two-state solution, including the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian State next to the State of Israel. This should feature internationally-recognised and secure borders on the basis of pre-1967 borders, the Vietnamese diplomat added.
Regarding the ongoing humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, the nation has called on all parties to ensure favourable conditions for humanitarian activities in Gaza. This would involve allowing the regular transportation of goods through the border gates between Gaza and outside areas in order to serve in acts of reconstruction and economic development.
According to Tor Wennesland, special co-ordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, the situation in Palestine in recent times continues to remain tense due to an increase in violence which has led to a growing number of Palestinian casualties come into conflict with Israeli authorities.
Many UNSC member states have therefore expressed their opposition and called on Israel to halt settlement expansion in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, as well as the destruction and confiscation of houses and properties of Palestinians. In addition, some countries have reiterated their objections to firing rockets at Israel.
The same day saw the UNSC also adopt a number of resolutions regarding UN activities in the Republic of Mali, Lebanon, and Somalia with 15 out of 15 votes in favour.
