At the United Nations General Assembly emergency special session on the Palestinian question, China’s permanent representative, Fu Cong, called on Israel to immediately end its presence in the occupied Palestinian territories.
Addressing delegates on Tuesday, Fu emphasized that decades of occupation have inflicted immense suffering on the Palestinian people and thwarted their aspirations for independent statehood. “Ending the occupation is not an option, but a legal obligation for Israel,” he stated.
Fu referenced the International Court of Justice’s advisory opinion issued on July 19, which concluded that Israel’s continued presence in the occupied Palestinian territories violates international law. The ICJ opinion, he noted, reaffirms the global consensus and highlights the core issue at the heart of the Palestinian question.
“We urge Israel to heed the strong call of the international community by immediately ending its unlawful presence,” Fu declared. He stressed that ending the occupation is essential not only to rectify historical injustices but also to lay the foundation for lasting peace in the region.
The ambassador underscored the inalienable right of the Palestinian people to independent statehood, asserting that the prolonged occupation has hindered their self-determination. “Only a complete end to the occupation and the establishment of an independent State of Palestine will make it possible for Palestine and Israel to live side by side in peace,” he said.
Fu called on the international community to intensify efforts to resolve the conflict, urging Israel to implement relevant United Nations resolutions, cease military operations in Gaza, and halt illegal settlement activities in the West Bank. He advocated for the convening of a more inclusive and effective international peace conference to revitalize the two-state solution, proposing the development of a clear timetable and roadmap for its implementation.
“Today is a historic moment,” Fu remarked, noting that the State of Palestine has taken a seat among UN member states and introduced a draft resolution focusing on the implementation of the ICJ’s advisory opinion. “China will vote in favor of the draft resolution and hopes it will inject new momentum into ending the occupation and advancing the Middle East peace process.”
Fu’s statements reflect China’s commitment to supporting the Palestinian cause and promoting peace and stability in the Middle East. His remarks resonated with many delegates who share the vision of a two-state solution as the only viable path to lasting peace.
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Chinese envoy urges Israel to end presence in Palestinian territory
cgtn.com
