Question NW2633 to the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
09 December 2021 - NW2633
Msane, Ms TP to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
How does the Government’s policy positions on apartheid Israel align when she pledges solidarity with the Palestinian People in her statement on 8 June 2021 on Justice for the Palestinian People and the Government and others moved in October for the rescission of the African Union’s decision to grant Israel observer status, while it permits Ms South Africa to attend the 70th Annual Miss Universe pageant to be held in Eilat, Israel and (b) what is the Government’s position on the Republic of South Africa being represented by Miss South Africa in an international event that will give credibility and acceptance amongst the community of nations to the apartheid state of Israel?
Reply:
a) The South African Government remains steadfast in its approach with regard to the Middle East Peace Process (MEPP) and its support for the State of Palestine. The establishment of a viable Palestinian state, living side-by-side in peace with Israel, within the internationally recognised borders, which came into existence on 4 June 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital, in compliance with all relevant United Nations resolutions, international law and internationally agreed parameters, remains a fundamental pillar of South Africa’s Foreign Policy. The commitment of solidarity with the Palestinian people made on 8 June 2021, as well as South Africa’s reaction to the granting of Observer Status to Israel by the African Union, are testimony to the Government’s efforts to bring Palestine back into the global mainstream.
b) The Government has indicated its views on the Miss Universe pagearnt and called on Miss South Africa to refrain from participating in the pageant. Miss South Africa has not agreed to the governments proposal.