France’s attempt to secure widespread recognition of a Palestinian state at the UN Conference on the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution has failed. The proposal, presented by Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, aimed to encourage countries to recognize Palestine as a sovereign state. However, several countries expressed concerns or reservations about joining the call.
Countries such as Norway, Slovenia, Iceland, and Ireland supported the idea, while Luxembourg’s Foreign Minister Xavier Bettel urged President Emmanuel Macron to take pressure on Israel. In contrast, European countries like Germany and Italy expressed difficulties in responding within the short notice period of 48 hours. Asian countries also declined to join the declaration, citing a need for further consideration.
Australia, meanwhile, is hesitant to recognize a Palestinian state due to concerns over Hamas’s potential involvement. Once this issue is clarified, Australia may consider recognition. France plans to continue pushing for recognition at the UN General Assembly in September, hoping to build momentum and encourage other countries to follow suit. The conference in New York was seen as an initial step towards bringing attention to the issue.
Source: https://www.jpost.com/international/article-862647