Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly delivered a speech at a UN General Assembly meeting on Palestine, emphasizing Egypt's firm stance against the annexation of Palestinian lands and the displacement of the Palestinian people. Madbouly stressed the importance of maintaining Palestinian unity and territorial integrity. He expressed gratitude to the UK, France, and Canada for hosting the meeting, which took place on the sidelines of the 81st UN General Assembly session.
Madbouly outlined Egypt's vision for a peaceful resolution to the Palestinian issue, highlighting that a lasting peace in the Middle East can only be achieved through a political settlement that ends the Israeli occupation and leads to the establishment of a Palestinian state. He referenced the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as the capital, as a key aspect of this vision. This stance aligns with long-standing Egyptian support for a two-state solution.
The Prime Minister noted that the two-state solution faces unprecedented challenges due to Israeli expansionist activities, including settlement construction, land confiscation, and escalating settler violence in the West Bank. He also cited Israel's continued control over large areas of the Gaza Strip and restrictions on aid entry as significant obstacles. These developments have exacerbated tensions and complicated efforts to revive the peace process.
Madbouly welcomed initiatives by the UK, France, Canada, and other countries aimed at addressing illegal Israeli settlement activities. He emphasized the need for concrete measures to prevent land annexation, settlement expansion, and population displacement. Egypt's position underscores its commitment to supporting Palestinian rights and statehood while promoting regional stability.
The Egyptian Prime Minister highlighted the importance of bolstering the Palestinian Authority, enabling it to fulfill its responsibilities and reassert its role in the Gaza Strip. This, he stressed, is crucial for preserving Palestinian unity and institutional cohesion. By supporting the Palestinian Authority, Egypt aims to contribute to a more stable and cohesive Palestinian leadership.
Madbouly also touched upon the need for implementing a comprehensive plan for Gaza, referencing the US President's initiative and UN Security Council Resolution 2803. He emphasized the importance of a synchronized approach, incorporating elements such as a ceasefire, aid facilitation, Israeli withdrawal, and the deployment of an international stabilization force. Such a plan would help address the complex challenges facing Gaza and the broader Palestinian territories.
In conclusion, Madbouly reaffirmed Egypt's commitment to working with international partners to safeguard the two-state solution and advance peace in the region. Egypt's proactive engagement reflects its dedication to resolving the Palestinian issue through diplomatic means, emphasizing the need for a negotiated settlement that respects Palestinian rights and aspirations. By maintaining its principled stance, Egypt continues to play a constructive role in regional efforts to achieve a lasting peace.
Key points
- Egypt rejects the annexation of Palestinian lands and displacement of the Palestinian people.
- The two-state solution faces significant challenges due to Israeli settlement activities and control over Gaza.
- Egypt advocates for bolstering the Palestinian Authority and implementing a comprehensive plan for Gaza.
