Right of the Palestinian people to self-determination – GA Third Cttee debate, introduction of draft resolution – Press release (excerpts)

Third Committee

43^rd Meeting (AM)

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Background

The Third Committee (Social, Humanitarian and Cultural) met today to hear the introduction of a number of draft resolutions on the report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees; the report of the Human Rights Council; the elimination of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; the right of peoples to self-determination; and promotion and protection of human rights.

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Introduction of Resolutions

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The representative of Egypt then introduced a draft resolution on The right of the Palestinian people to self-determination (document A/C.3/65/L.52), stating that, for more than five decades, the Palestinian people suffered under the Israelis and were denied human rights.  That compelled the co-sponsors to present the draft resolution, until the right to self-determination could be realized.  The draft resolution was essentially the same as last year, except for technical updates.  Among others, it reaffirmed the right to self-determination, recalling numerous international agreements.  It noted the International Court of Justice’s conclusion regarding the construction of the wall, stating that it severely impeded the right of the Palestinian people to self-development.  In order to reach lasting peace, there needed to be respect for the Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem.  Only upon such a territory could the Palestinians establish a sovereign state and live in peace alongside the State of Israel.  He hoped the resolution could be adopted by consensus.

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For information media • not an official record