TEL AVIV: Singapore can’t alter the trajectory of the conflict between Israel and Hamas, or reshape the Center East’s geopolitical panorama, however it might probably assist in methods which are removed from simply symbolic, mentioned International Affairs Minister Vivian Balakrishnan.
“We will be useful, we will be constructive. We will keep {our relationships} between them, however don’t ever suppose that we’re determinative of outcomes,” he mentioned on Thursday (Nov 6) throughout a media interview on the conclusion of his four-day visit to the Palestinian Territories and Israel.
“Whereas we can’t alter the course of historical past, we are able to do good if we are able to save lives with humanitarian help, or medical help, or provides, medical provides, meals,” he mentioned. “That isn’t symbolic, that is actual.”
Throughout his go to, Dr Balakrishnan witnessed Singapore’s US$500,000 donation to the World Meals Programme on Tuesday, supporting meals help for Gaza civilians. He additionally introduced two new capacity-building courses for Palestinians.
“What we’re doing is actual, it’s good and it’s appreciated. However is that this an entire resolution? No, it isn’t,” he mentioned.
“An entire resolution wants actual negotiations between all of the stakeholders, reconciliation, a dedication to peace, a dedication to not resort to violence, and the dedication to a long-term, shared future.”
His go to comes on the heels of the primary section of a ceasefire settlement between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, which included the discharge of hostages.
Dr Balakrishnan met with Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa and International Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin on Tuesday, Israeli President Isaac Herzog on Wednesday, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and International Minister Gideon Sa’ar on Thursday.
