MALAYSIA CAN RALLY ASEAN, GLOBAL SUPPORT FOR PALESTINE - PALESTINIAN AMBASSADOR
By Suraidah Roslan
KUALA LUMPUR, July 15 (Bernama) -- Malaysia, recognised for its unwavering support for the Palestinian cause and constructive role as ASEAN chair, is in an influential position to rally regional and global backing for Palestine, said Palestinian Ambassador to Malaysia Walid Abu Ali.
“No one can question Malaysia’s support for Palestine,” he said when appearing on BernamaTV’s programme ‘ASEAN’s Role in the Palestinian Cause’ here on Tuesday.
Walid said Malaysia, through its leadership in ASEAN and active engagement in platforms such as the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), is well-positioned to encourage broader international solidarity and mobilise stronger regional and global support for Palestine.
He said Malaysia can play a strong role at the regional level by leveraging its international relations to garner greater support and assistance for Palestine and the Palestinians.
Walid said that ASEAN can also play a role in supporting Palestine through its influence and economic interests in the Middle East.
He said ASEAN’s decision to hold a summit with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries indicated that the regional grouping could contribute meaningfully towards achieving a comprehensive settlement in the Middle East.
“And that will encourage ASEAN countries to invest more in the Middle East, in Palestine,” he said.
“They can benefit from the capabilities of Palestinians,” Walid said, adding that despite living under occupation, Palestinians are among the most highly educated communities in the Middle East and the Arab world.
-- BERNAMA
