"We look forward to the universal recognition of Palestine as an independent and sovereign state, and as a full member State of the United Nations. We can make this happen if we redouble our efforts to support them in nation and state-building," PresJakarta (Antara News) - President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has called for redouble efforts in supporting Palestine to become an independent and sovereign state as well as to gain a full membership status in the United Nations.
"We look forward to the universal recognition of Palestine as an independent and sovereign state, and as a full member State of the United Nations. We can make this happen if we redouble our efforts to support them in nation and state-building," Yudhoyono said in his opening remarks at the Second Conference on Cooperation among East Asian Countries for Palestinian Development (CEAPAD II).
The struggle of the Palestinian people reached a new height when the UN General Assembly recognized Palestine as a Non-member Observer State in November 2012, the Indonesian head of state said.
"This was made possible with the firm support of 138 countries of Asia and Africa, together with countries from other parts of the world," he stated.
Sixty years after the landmark Asia Africa Conference, Palestine has not joined the community of nation as an independent and sovereign state, he said, adding that yet Palestines delegates were among the first generation participants of the Bandung conference in 1955.
"Indonesia has been and will remain consistent in supporting the Palestinian pursuit for independence. It is our strong commitment to provide Palestine with not only political support, but also economic and development assistance. This is why CEAPAD becomes relevant and important," President Yudhoyono said.
Indonesia is eager to see a Middle East that is free of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction, according the the head of state.
"There is an absence of a nuclear-free zone treaty in the Middle East today. It needs one. The world is called upon to encourage the countries of the region to negotiate such an agreement," he urged.
Besides, Indonesia also wants to see a Middle East that is prosperous, and therefore can contribute to the global economic recovery, he added.
CEAPAD II was hosted by Indonesia and participated in by 27 delegations from 22 countries and several international organizations.
Palestinian Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah delivered a key speech in the meeting which was co-chaired by Indonesia, Japan and Palestine.
(T.F001/A/F001/A/A014) 01-03-2014 23:26:29
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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