MFA of Ukraine comment on the position of the Ukrainian delegation during the consideration of the UN Security Council resolution 2334 on the situation in the Middle East

On December 23, 2016 the UN Security Council adopted resolution 2334 on the situation in the Middle East. All UN SC member states voted in favor of abovementioned resolution except the United States which abstained.

Over the years our State has adhered to the consistent and balanced position on the issue of Israeli-Palestinian conflict. We stand for peaceful coexistence of two independent States – Israel and Palestine. The settlement of the conflict must be carried out only through peaceful means. However, we emphasize the need for direct Israeli-Palestinian negotiations.

Ukraine as well as other permanent and non-permanent members of the UN Security Council and also the UN Secretary-General for its part more than once condemned the settlement activities of the State of Israel, because it is contrary to the international law. We also condemn the violence and incitement to it from the Palestinian side.

The text of the resolution is balanced. It calls for taking measures necessary for peaceful solution from both Israeli and Palestinian sides: Israel should stop its settlement activities while Palestinian authorities – to take effective measures toward fighting against terrorism.

Our country consistently advocates the respect for the international law by everyone and everywhere as has experienced itself the tragic consequences brought by its violation.

That’s why our position was formed on the basis of our consistent line to ensure the respect for the international law by all its subjects.

We are convinced that only a foreign policy based on the need to protect the national interests and on the respect for the international law and universal principles and values is persuasive and understandable for all.

We are confident that active and emotional internal debates in Israel will not impact traditionally friendly Ukrainian-Israeli relationship, based on mutual respect and joint interests.