(Eagle News) — President Rodrigo Duterte reiterated the country’s commitment to a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Duterte made the commitment in his speech prior to his departure to Israel, where he is now on a four-day visit.
“In our efforts to strengthen the bonds of friendship and amity with our partners around the world, we shall be guided by our Constitution and laws as well as our international commitments in support of efforts and initiatives, including the two-state solution, towards the attainment of just and lasting peace,” he said.
Supporters of the two-state solution, such as Germany and the European Union, believe an independent Israel and an independent Palestine should exist separately.
Only recently, US President Donald Trump recognized Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, leading to tensions in the region.
Although the Philippines’ Department of Foreign Affairs said it was “aware of certain sensitivities” with Duterte’s then looming trip Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Ernesto Abella said the President “has proven in many, many ways, again and again, that it is possible to have this kind of independent foreign policy, [that] will satisfy the demands and needs of each particular relation.”
