Labour supports Palestine bid for UN recognition

The Government's refusal to be drawn on where it stands on Palestine's bid for statehood once again highlights its predilection for fence sitting, Labour's Foreign Affairs spokesperson Maryan Street says.

"Murray McCully's latest stance - to wait until the resolution is put to the General Assembly before making a commitment either way - is typical of National. He either supports it or he doesn't, so let's hear which it is."

She said Labour believed peace could only be achieved in the Middle East through a negotiated two-state solution but that Palestine should be recognised by the United Nations as a full member, rather than having only observer status as is the situation now.

"While we have not seen the actual wording of the Palestinian Authority's resolution, we understand that they are seeking to become full members of the UN, with all that that implies.

"We see no reason for the Security Council to deny that application, notwithstanding the fact that a negotiated outcome has not yet been achieved by Israel and Palestine.

"The United States President, Barack Obama, recognises that Palestinians deserve their own state and that for its part, Israel deserves recognition and normal relations with its neighbours.

"The Labour Party agrees with that, but the United States' intention to veto the Palestinian Authority's application for membership at the Security Council will not advance better international relations in our view," said Maryan Street.

Authorised by Maryan Street, MP, Parliament Buildings, Wellington

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