Minister Cowen calls for immediate implementation of Security Council Resolution on the Middle East

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Brian Cowen TD, has welcomed the decision of the United Nations Security Council to adopt a Resolution addressing the grave escalation in the Israeli-Palestine conflict. Resolution 1402 was adopted early this morning, following long negotiations and debate in which Ireland played a full and active part. The Resolution was passed by 14 votes to nil, with Syria abstaining.

The Minister made a strong appeal for the Israeli government and the Palestinian authority to implement, immediately and in full, the terms of the Resolution and to respond to the wider appeals of the international community. He said:

"There can be no justification for further killings or hostile actions which serve to deepen hatred between the Israeli and Palestinian peoples. The peace and security of Israel and a free and independent State of Palestine can be secured through political negotiations alone. The policy of violence, coercion and revenge, which currently prevails will lead only to further unnecessary grief and suffering"

Minister Cowen expressed satisfaction at the engagement of the Security Council as demonstrated by the adoption of Resolutions 1397 and 1402 and applauded the unity of purpose among the broad membership of the Council. He remarked:

"The Security Council is acting on behalf of the International Community in pointing the way to the resolution of this crisis. Israeli and Palestinian leaders must grasp this opportunity and work together to overcome those who would seek to perpetuate the conflict between their peoples."Top