32^nd Session of the Human Rights Council Item 7 General Debate

Intervention by Turkey

Mr. President,

As we are nearing the 50^th year of the occupation of Palestinian Territories, prospects for lasting peace still remain grim. Despite all the efforts to find a political solution, a wide range of practices continue to hamper the dynamics of peace, also increasing the tension in the entire region. Illegal practices in the Occupied Palestinian Territories should cease and a sincere and result-oriented engagement with the peace process should follow.

Turkey is deeply concerned by the ongoing expansion of Israeli settlements, as well as by demolitions and land confiscations, and the prevailing culture of impunity fostered by occupation itself. Furthermore, regarding the growing numbers of settlers allowed to enter Al-Haram Al-Sharif, Turkey is adamant that the preservation of the status and sanctity of the compound is essential.

Especially, the dismal effects of the 10 year-long blockade in Gaza have further deepened since 2013. A genuine reconstruction process in Gaza can only be launched with an end to the blockade. Turkey once again calls for the lifting of it.

In Palestine, the need for development assistance and investment in key areas is more urgent than ever. The priority should be to empower the people of Palestine and to improve their living conditions. With this understanding, Turkey’s recent pledge of 200 Million USD is being progressively channelled into specific projects, such as the new industrial zone in Jenin and the Turkish-Palestinian Hospital in Gaza.

Turkey will resolutely deploy all efforts for a just, lasting and comprehensive settlement of the Palestinian issue. The realization of the two-state peace vision in accordance with international law, relevant UN resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative is the only viable way forward. This vision requires first and foremost the establishment of a sovereign, independent and contiguous Palestinian state within the pre-1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, living side by side in peace and security with the State of Israel.

I thank you.