The Government does not recognise a ‘State of Palestine’. An independent Palestinian state can only emerge from a negotiated two-state settlement. Unilateral recognition will not resolve outstanding issues or create the conditions for enduring stability. This will only be realised from a directly negotiated agreement.
Full speech
Dear Mrs Wicks
Thank you for your letter of 12 September 2018 attaching petition PN0371 on Palestinian statehood.
Australia is a longstanding, strong supporter of a two-state solution to the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians. We are committed to a future where Israel and a Palestinian state exist side-by-side in peace and security, within internationally recognised borders.
The Australian Government urges both the Israelis and Palestinians to return to negotiations and refrain from actions and statements that undermine the prospects for peace. We also support the Palestinian people and their aspirations to statehood through our continued provision of aid to the Palestinian Territories. In 2018-19 Australia will provide $43 million, including for humanitarian assistance in Gaza and economic development.
The Government does not recognise a ‘State of Palestine’. An independent Palestinian state can only emerge from a negotiated two-state settlement. Unilateral recognition will not resolve outstanding issues or create the conditions for enduring stability. This will only be realised from a directly negotiated agreement.
Yours sincerely
from the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator Payne(Petition No. PN0371)