Written: 1983
Published: 1983
Source: United Nations International Conference on the Question of Palestine, Geneva, 29 August-7 September 1983, A/CONF.114/40 (3 October 1983)
Digitalisation: United Nations
Proof-reading: Vishnu Bachani
HTML: Vishnu Bachani
1. In my capacity as the current Chairman of the Organization of African Unity, I have the pleasure of conveying to you, and through you, to the participants in this world Conference, Africa's best wishes for the success of your deliberations and reiterate our support and fraternal solidarity with the heroic people of Palestine.
2. It is tragic to note that for nearly four decades, the rights of the people of Palestine have been trampled underfoot in full view of the international community. Not only have the long-suffering people of Palestine remained homeless, but they have also been subjected to continuous harassment, deportation and indiscriminate murder even in the places where they have been given temporary refuge.
3. The injustice being perpetuated on the people of Palestine, therefore, should not be allowed to continue nor should the international community remain a passive observer in the face of Israeli flagrant violations of the fundamental rights of the Palestinian people. The Palestinian people must, without any further delay, be allowed to exercise their inalienable right to self-determination and the establishment of their own independent State.
4. To this end, it is our earnest hope that this Conference will call for strong measures that would advance the just cause of the Palestinian people and ensure the stability of the region as well as international peace and security.
5. While once again reiterating our firm solidarity with the people of Palestine and our full support for their just cause, let me reassure this Conference of Africa's unwavering commitment to the struggle for justice, equality and peace in the Middle East.
6. May I, in conclusion, convey my very best wishes for the success of your worthy endeavours at this timely Conference on the question of Palestine.
[1] The spelling used in the original document is Mengistu Haile-Mariam, though the internationally accepted Romanization is Mengistu Haile Mariam.