New york: A Chinese envoy emphasized the urgency of addressing the Palestinian question, which remains central to the ongoing turmoil in the Middle East. Geng Shuang, China's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations, highlighted this during a high-level Security Council meeting, stressing the issue's impact on regional peace and stability.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Geng pointed out that the Palestinian-Israeli situation has influenced the international landscape for over seven decades, frequently descending into conflict and war. The current Gaza conflict has exacerbated the suffering of the Palestinian people, with Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, Iran, and even Qatar experiencing rising tensions.
Geng noted that the increasing instability in the Middle East adversely affects global security and economic prospects, opposing the international community's interests. He called for the immediate end of the Gaza tragedy, urging Israel to cease military actions and fulfill its humanitarian obligations.
Geng criticized Israel's expansion of settlements in the West Bank and its recent approval of the E1 settlement plan, which violates international law and undermines the potential for an independent Palestinian state. He called on Israel to halt settlement activities and remove restrictions on Palestinian economic activities.
The envoy reaffirmed China's commitment to the two-state solution as the only viable resolution to the Palestinian question. He urged the international community to support this approach and facilitate the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with full UN membership.
Geng concluded by emphasizing China's dedication to fairness and justice for Palestine, advocating for a ceasefire, humanitarian relief, and the implementation of the two-state solution to achieve a lasting resolution to the Palestinian issue.