Speech by Dr. Varsen Aghabekian State Minister for Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of the State of Palestine at the 9th Regional Forum of the Union for the Mediterranean[...]

Speech by Dr. Varsen Aghabekian - State Minister for Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of the State of Palestine at the 9th Regional Forum of the Union for the Mediterranean October 28-2024

Excellencies, Distinguished Ministers, Ambassadors, and esteemed members of the Union for the Mediterranean,

I am here today not only as a representative of the State of Palestine, but as a voice for countless innocent men, women, and children who have been devastated by Israel's the current genocidal war on Gaza.

This is not merely a conflict; it is a humanitarian catastrophe that demands urgent international attention. We turn to this forum, and to the world, with a plea for justice, accountability, and peace, with not mere condemnations but measures and action on the ground.

The State of Palestine calls upon the Union for the Mediterranean and its members to stand firmly in defense of international law and humanitarian principles. We call upon you, our European partners, and all nations who uphold the ideals of justice, to take an unwavering stance against the continuous violations of international law and the basic rights of our people. We must end the violence, end this genocidal war and end the occupation, and affirm Palestine's right to sovereignty and self-determination. This is not only a political imperative but a moral duty.

Ladies and gentlemen;

The State of Palestine, like every other nation, has the inherent right to govern itself and to control its own natural resources. Decades of occupation have denied Palestinians not only their land and their homes but also the ability to benefit from their own resources. This exploitation is unsustainable, unjust, and a direct affront to our fundamental rights as a sovereign people.

We ask this esteemed forum to support our call for the recognition of the State of Palestine. Recognition is more than a symbolic act; it is a step toward justice and equality that grants the Palestinian people a rightful place within our shared international community and safeguards the two State Solution.

The Union for the Mediterranean was created to foster peace, cooperation, and stability in our region. It was built on a foundation that supports a just and peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, specifically through a two-state solution. The State of Palestine urges this forum to reaffirm its commitment to this principle, ensuring that we return to a dialogue that is fair and just and implement the two State Solution with measures on the ground.

We call upon the UfM to provide a balanced and inclusive platform where the Palestinian voice is valued equally. We are ready to engage constructively in discussions that can lead to socio-economic growth, integration, and mutual prosperity. The Mediterranean region faces joint challenges-whether in water scarcity, economic growth, or sustainable development. By addressing these challenges together, we can forge a shared path forward that benefits all.

We appeal to you, our Mediterranean partners, to recognize the shared values that bind us together-dignity, justice, and humanity. The State of Palestine, despite decades of hardship of over 75 years of pain and suffering and a prolonged occupation since 1967, remains committed to these values. Our people, resilient and determined, will continue to contribute to this union. We bring with us not only our experiences and knowledge but a steadfast commitment to humanity, dignity, and shared progress.

Now is the time to stand tall against all forms of dehumanization and supremacy. We cannot allow a future in which any people, especially those under occupation, are denied their fundamental human rights. We have an obligation to reject ideologies that justify inequality or violence, for these are antithetical to the very essence of the Union for the Mediterranean.

Excellencies,

We may live through difficult times, but we do not lose hope. We hold fast to the belief that the Union for the Mediterranean can, and must, be a platform for peace and equality. We call upon each of you, as leaders of this region, to embody the principles that have always defined this union-mutual respect, justice, and the commitment to a future where every nation and every person has equal rights and opportunities.

The State of Palestine stands ready to contribute to this mission. We bring with us the resilience of people who have persevered through adversity, and the hope of a nation that believes in the possibility of a better future for all in our Mediterranean family.

Thank you.

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