Press Release
05 June 2014
President Zuma congratulates parties to the Palestinian Government of National Consensus
The President of the Republic of South Africa, H. E. Mr. Jacob Zuma, has, on behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, congratulated Mr. Mahmoud Abbas, President of the State of Palestine, following the formation of the government of national consensus that brings an end to the division between the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
This milestone development will go a long way towards advancing the Palestinian national reconciliation in particular and its struggle for self-determination.
South Africa has consistently encouraged both Fatah and Hamas to end the division between the West Bank and Gaza Strip since 2007. The perpetuity of division amongst Palestinians could not be left unattended as it has and could have dire consequences for the broader national question and for the territorial integrity of the future Palestinian state.
President Zuma said: “South Africa supports international efforts aimed at the establishment of a viable Palestinian state, existing side by side and in peace with Israel within internationally recognized borders, based on those existing on 04 June 1967, prior to the outbreak of the 1967 Arab-Israeli war, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
“South Africa calls on the international community to support the new government of national consensus that has been inaugurated in Ramallah that will ensure national cohesion and reconciliation amongst the Palestinians. On its part, South Africa will continue to render its unwavering support to the government and people of Palestine as they strive towards nation building and freedom.”
Enquiries: Mr Clayson Monyela, 082 884 5974
ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
OR Tambo Building
460 Soutpansberg Road
Rietondale
Pretoria
|
