Brazil fully supports PA’s move to gain UN non-member status

The Brazilian representative to the Palestinian Authority (PA), Ligia Maria Scherer, on the occasion of Brazil’s national day on Thursday,  affirmed his countries full support of the Palestinian bid to seek a non–member state status at the United Nations General Assembly. During the celebration of Brazil’s 190th anniversary of its independence in Ramallah, he said the position of Brazil is well known: “We recognize the state of Palestine, comprising the West bank and Gaza, within the 1967 borders and with Jerusalem as its capital.” He stressed his country’s clear position on the “appalling acts that Palestinians endure daily,” saying that settlements “are illegal under international law and an obstacle to peace.” “Attacks, restrictions, demolitions and evictions by Israel must stop and the siege on Gaza must be lifted.” He said that alternative means to diminish the huge asymmetry of power between the Palestinian and Israeli sides should come to the forefront. In this scenario the United Nations could be a strategic pillar.” “These new avenues could enhance the chances of the resumption of the negotiations on legitimate and credible basis, as well as safeguard the solution of having two free states living peacefully and in security side by side.” Scherer praised the Palestinian people for being an example of hope and determination in their pursuit of their national rights, as well as for their courage and resilience in these difficult and challenging times, when reasons for optimism seem elusive.