Sundaymail Editor
Online Reporter
The State of Palestine has welcomed the stance recently taken by regional leaders to object to the African Union Commission’s decision to unilaterally give Israel observer status.
An AU observer status, which is similar to an accreditation, formally establishes ties with the continental body.
In a statement on Thursday, Palestine said the resolution made at the 41st Summit of Heads of State and Government is in line with international law.
“SADC’s position is in line with international law and the shared long history of solidarity and struggle against colonialism and oppression between the Palestinian and African peoples.
“This resolute objection, together with other states’ objections, will serve as a stark reminder that colonial occupation, racism, and endemic violations of international law, which continue to shackle Palestine, must not be rewarded or appeased,” reads part of the statement.
The State of Palestine also urged more countries on the continent to back its efforts to end Israeli occupation.
“State of Palestine also calls on all other African states to join SADC in being the standard-bearer in the Palestinian struggle and to lead international efforts to end Israel’s colonial occupation and apartheid regime.
“The State of Palestine also calls on African states to push for accountability for Israel’s crimes and not associate themselves with the only remaining and most brutal colonial project in the world today,” it said.
African people’s longstanding and principled support and solidarity with the Palestinian struggle against the illegal settler colonialism and apartheid, the statement added, is a source of hope and strength that the Palestinian people cherish.”
Tinaye Agere
Online Reporter