New Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters said: “The humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza is rightly paramount in the global agenda.”
“New Zealand, as a long-standing supporter of the two-state solution and Palestinian self-determination, is an active participant in discussions about how to start a ceasefire and a political settlement to enable the Israelis and Palestinians to live peacefully Zij-by-By-Side. We will hear ourselves.
“New Zealand has been clear for some time that our recognition of a Palestinian state is a matter of when, not if.
“New Zealand has long asked whether the conditions for a viable and legitimate Palestinian state-in safety, political, diplomatic and economic conditions. We will have to weigh up whether sufficient progress is being made against these benchmarks to justify New Zealand that a Palestinian state recognizes this link.
“New Zealand has given this issue with careful, methodical and intentional attention. We will pay attention to the ground on the ground that quickly deteriorates, our narrow partners who are divided over the issue of recognition and a series of Arab states that must be made clear and do not have to have a future role in Palestinian Governance.
“Cabinet will make a formal decision in September on whether New – Zealand should recognize a state of Palestine at the moment – and if so, when and how.”
The full explanation can be read here.
– Alexandra Koster
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