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Statement by H.E. The Hon Robert Hill, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Australia to the United Nations, to the Security Council on The Situation in the Middle East
25 March 2009
(As distributed)
The Australian Government remains committed to the Middle East peace process and to the vision of two states - Israel and Palestine - living side by side in peace and security.
The tragic events of December and January have underlined yet again the vital importance of efforts towards Middle East peace. Australia was deeply saddened by the recent conflict in the Gaza Strip and southern Israel and its humanitarian cost. Australian condemns any ongoing rocket and mortar fire perpetrated by Hamas as a risk to peace in the region.
We recognise the importance of the Gazan people having access to humanitarian and other assistance so that rebuilding and reconstruction can take place, and call on Israel to do all it can to help increase the flow of humanitarian goods and other necessary supplies into the Gaza Strip.
Australia believes the priority for both sides remains just as much as ever the pursuit of a two-state solution to the conflict, based on the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people to a viable state of their own, and Israel’s right to live in peace within secure borders.
It is also essential that members of the international community lend their support. In this regard, we recognise and commend efforts, such as the Arab Peace Initiative, towards a broader Middle East peace. We also commend the role Egypt has played, and strongly support a durable and fully respected cease-fire, as called for in UN Security Council Resolution 1860. We welcome Palestinian reconciliation, which should be consistent with Quartet principles.
Australia recognises the vital importance of recovery and reconstruction efforts, and the central role of the Palestinian Authority in this regard.
That is why Australia was pleased to announce at Sharm el-Sheikh a contribution of $20 million to assist the efforts of the Palestinian Authority, with United Nations agencies and other donors, to meet the recovery and reconstruction needs of the Palestinian people. This assistance builds on the $10 million which Australia had already committed in January for emergency and humanitarian relief through UN agencies and non-government organisations and the $45 million provided in 2008.
Australia stands ready to provide whatever further practical assistance we can.