SANTO DOMINGO, November 25, 2009 (WAFA)-The Council of the Socialist International (SI) reaffirmed conviction that a solution of the Israeli-Arab conflict is a crucial step to create peace, and stability in the region as a whole.
The resolution read by SI President George Papandrio PM of Greece, reaffirmed conviction that a solution of the Israeli-Arab conflict, by creating a Palestinian state, by recognizing the right of Israel to live in peace within internationally recognized borders, and by putting an end to the Israeli occupation of the Palestinian Territory occupied in 1967 including East Jerusalem, is a crucial step to create peace, and stability in the region as a whole.
The Council expressed its concern regarding the continued stalemate in the Middle East Peace Process, and stresses the urgency of a prompt return to serious, effective and substantial negotiations, on the basis of the agreed upon terms of reference – the provisions of the international law, UN resolutions and earlier signed agreements – to establish the independent ,sovereign and viable democratic Palestinian state in the Palestinian territory occupied in 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
The Council reaffirmed that Israeli settlement activities in the Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, “natural growth”, bypass roads and the building of a Separation Wall on occupies territory, are illegal and constitute a gross violation of international law, and a major obstacle to peace. They also constitute a violation of the signed commitment to abstain from “any unilateral action liable to prejudice the outcome of final status negotiations”. They must be halted at once in order to make territorial negotiations possible, and credible.
The Council called upon all governments to put an end to the blockade of the Gaza strip which constitutes a collective punishment.
The Council urged the international community, to support the efforts of the Palestinian government in building the economic and institutional foundations of the Palestinian state, and in reconstructing Gaza. The Council congratulates Fatah for its recent congress and takes note of the positive reorganization of its democratic life.
Speaking to WAFA, Fateh Central Committee member Dr. Nabil Shaath hailed SI resolution since it represents many of European governments and Latin American countries , who voted in favor of Goldeston Report and for another resolution that calls for establishing a Palestinian State, saying that coincides with President Mahmoud Abbas tour in Latin America.
To be noted that it is the first time an international body calls for internationally recognized Israeli borders, which has not been drawn in the United Nations.
