Botswana condemns USA's decision to recognise Jerusalem as Israeli capital
Correspondent | Thursday December 7, 2017 14:36
In recognition of this, the International Community continues to advocate that the status of Jerusalem be resolved through negotiation and as part of a two state solution. This is the reason why the international community has refrained from making any pronouncements in favour of one side or the other.
The Government of the Republic of Botswana therefore wishes to express its regret about the United States of America’s regressive decision to recognise Jerusalem as the Capital city of Israel only. This decision is condemned in that it is thus contrary to the strong international consensus which affirms that the status of Jerusalem should be determined through a negotiation process between the State of Israel and the State of Palestine.
The status of Jerusalem is critical to the amicable resolution of the protracted Israeli and Palestinian conflict. The policy stance taken by the United States will therefore not only undermine international efforts towards a negotiated settlement, but it also compromises the role of the USA as a neutral facilitator in the Peace Process.
The Government of Botswana therefore wishes to urge the United States to reconsider its decision in the interest of preserving the integrity of the peace process and the efforts invested in it thus far, as well as the advancement of international peace and security.