KUALA LUMPUR: Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir has stated that Malaysia will continue its engagement and efforts to convince other countries to support the Palestine cause and condemn Israel’s ongoing attacks on civilians and ground assaults in Gaza.
According to Zambry, Malaysia’s aim is to persuade not only countries in the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), but also countries in the Group of 77 (G77) and the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) to assist the people of Gaza.
He acknowledged that powerful nations such as the United States, European Union, and Latin America have influential powers, but stressed the need to persist in engaging with these countries and not be discouraged.
Zambry highlighted that countries from the Latin America region have been increasingly pledging their support and denouncing the atrocities against the people of Gaza.
Additionally, Zambry shared that during a recent meeting between Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and the Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte, Malaysia conveyed its stance on the Palestinian issue, which was respected by the Netherlands.
He emphasized that the sentiment of the Dutch people has changed in the face of the latest developments in Gaza, with the majority no longer agreeing with the continued Israeli attacks.
Zambry emphasized the importance of the people and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) actively spreading awareness and engaging in the cause, even amongst those living abroad.
Regarding the United States government’s action of sending three ‘demarche’ to Malaysia due to its firm stance and refusal to label Hamas as a terrorist group, Zambry stated that Malaysia will take all approaches to make its stance known, including delivering protest notes to ambassadors of countries that are not in favor.
He further reiterated that Malaysia’s principle position on the Palestine cause is well-known and has been its stance for a long time, emphasizing the importance of making this known during interactions with other nations.
– Bernama
