Singapore has “consistently supported the right of the Palestinians to their own homeland based on a negotiated two-state solution”, Mr Cheok said.
“We firmly believe that this is the only viable pathway to achieving a comprehensive, just, and durable solution to this longstanding conflict. To this end, we are prepared in principle to recognise the State of Palestine.”
Singapore’s key consideration is that such a move “should help progress” towards peace and a negotiated two-state solution.
“There must be an effective Palestinian government in place, that also categorically renounces terrorism and accepts Israel’s right to exist,” said Mr Cheok.
He added that Singapore welcomes a letter from Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, dated Jun 9, that reiterated “the Palestinian Authority’s continued rejection of violence and terrorism, its longstanding recognition of Israel’s right to exist, and its commitment to the implementation of its reform agenda”.
Singapore hopes that these commitments can be implemented fully, said Mr Cheok.
It also urged Israelis and Palestinians to “return to the negotiating table and make necessary, albeit difficult, concessions”.
“To continue on the current trajectory will only make the goal of peace even more difficult to achieve, and result in an endless cycle of mutual hatred and violence,” said Mr Cheok.
“Both sides must have the courage to break this vicious cycle.”
