On 4 May Foreign Minister Bishop condemned the comments by the Palestinian National Authority, saying they were deeply regrettable and anti-Semitic, going against historical facts. Similar condemnation also came from a number of foreign ministers. President Abbas reportedly later apologised, saying… we condemn anti-Semitism in all its forms and confirm our commitment to the 2-state solution and to live side by side in peace and security.
Full speech
Senator McGRATH (Queensland—Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister) (15:51): I seek leave to make a short statement.
The PRESIDENT: Leave is granted for one minute.
Senator McGRATH: On 4 May Foreign Minister Bishop condemned the comments by the Palestinian National Authority, saying they were deeply regrettable and anti-Semitic, going against historical facts. Similar condemnation also came from a number of foreign ministers. President Abbas reportedly later apologised, saying:
… we condemn anti-Semitism in all its forms and confirm our commitment to the 2-state solution and to live side by side in peace and security.
Australia’s support of a two-state solution is consistent.
Question agreed to.