04 Feb 2015

Parliament has been informed that Botswana has consistently voted in favour of the United Nations resolutions reaffirming rights of the Palestinian people in the occupied territories.

In response to a parliamentary question  on behalf of the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Minister for Presidential Affairs and Public Administration, Mr Eric Molale said Botswana was among the first group of UN member states to recognise the State of Palestine in 1988 through resolution A/RES/43/177.

He said Botswana recognised the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination and strongly supports resolving the conflict between the Israelis and Palestinians through negotiations.

“It is important to highlight the fact that formal recognition of Palestine enables Botswana and the rest of the international community to be in a stronger position to help the peace process by applying pressure on two equally accountable parties. This recognition encourages Palestenians to act responsibly on dealing with Israel,” he said.

The Jwaneng-Mabutsane MP, Mr Shawn Nthaile had asked the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation whether Botswana recognised the State of Palestine. ENDS