STATEMENT BY
PERMANENT MISSION OF MALAYSIA
AT THE SECURITY COUNCIL OPEN VIDEO TELECONFERENCING (VTC)
ON THE SITUATION IN THE MIDDLE EAST, INCLUDING THE PALESTINIAN QUESTION
NEW YORK, 23 APRIL 2020
Mr. President,
1. Malaysia aligns itself with the statement delivered by Azerbaijan on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).
2. The past few weeks have revealed that only diplomacy and de-escalation can lead to a more stable and safer world. We have seen a substantial number of parties to various conflicts expressing their support for an immediate ceasefire, including in the Middle East. It indeed offers a promising path for the concerned parties to focus on what matters and work towards a peaceful solution to the conflict.
3. Malaysia fully supports the Secretary-General’s call for an immediate global ceasefire in all corners of the world in light of the global COVID-19 pandemic. But more importantly, we call on the relevant parties in the region to end hostilities permanently and return to the negotiating table and dialogue.
Mr. President,
4. Malaysia’s position on the Palestinian-Israeli conflict remains clear and consistent. The negotiated two-state solution is the only viable solution. We call on the international community to assume its responsibilities to end the suffering of the brotherly Palestinian people and to establish an independent Palestinian state on the pre-1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital. We also urge the relevant parties to ensure the full respect and implementation of Resolution 2334 concerning Israel’s illegal settlements in the Palestinian territory.
5. The COVID-19 pandemic threatens to worsen the already dire situation by further aggravating the humanitarian crisis and economic situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.
6. The movement of restriction that we are experiencing due to the pandemic offers a glimpse of the grave situation in the occupied territory. For the Palestinians living in Gaza – the blockade has been enforced upon them for as long as 13 years now. Malaysia stresses the need for the Council to act urgently in enabling the unhindered transfer of required medical supplies and equipment, particularly into Gaza and the easing of the movement of Palestinians that are in need of medical attention.
7. Malaysia commends UNRWA and its partners in the efforts to protect the Palestinian people in the fight against the pandemic. They must be supported strongly.
Mr. President,
8. In conclusion, my delegation remains convinced that the United Nations must continue to occupy a central role in realising the two-state solution for Palestine and Israel. We will continue to extend our support to the Palestinian people in their quest for fundamental rights, particularly their inalienable right to self-determination, as well as their rights for a dignified life, justice, and prosperity.
Thank you.
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