South African Government welcomes and supports efforts by the Palestinian Parties to set up a Transitional Unity Government

The South African Government has noted the announcement by the Palestinian parties Fatah and Hamas on 27 April 2011 in Cairo that they have reached an understanding with the view to set up a transitional unity government and hold elections within eight months.

The South African Government views these developments in a very positive light, especially coming as they did on the 17th anniversary of South Africa’s own liberation from oppression and dawn of democratic freedom. On this day, South Africa celebrates its attainment of freedom, democracy, national reconciliation, unity and the restoration of human dignity. 

The Government and people of South Africa understand the importance of national reconciliation, unity and the restoration of human dignity. Therefore South Africa would support all efforts on the part of the leaders of Palestine that would sincerely and constructively contribute towards lasting peace, stability, security and prosperity for the Palestinian people.

The South African Government commends both parties for their efforts to re-initiate reconciliation talks and hopes that they will surmount any obstacles to ensure that a firm and formal agreement is achieved in the near future. We further believe that the unity of the Palestinian people is vital for the creation of a free and democratic Palestinian State along the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its Capital.

In this regard, we urge all Palestinian factions to unite behind a reformed Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) so as to carry forward the hopes and aspirations of all Palestinians for freedom, self-determination and human dignity. We also urge all parties, including the Israeli Government, to negotiate with the leaders chosen by the Palestinian people, in order to establish a free and independent Palestinian State, living side-by-side in peace with the State of Israel.

For further information please contact Mr. Clayson Monyela spokesperson for DIRCO on 082 884 5974

Issued by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation
OR Tambo Building
460 Soutpansberg Road
Pretoria

29 April 2011