Russia supports resolution on recognition of Palestinian state

Moscow has vowed to support a United Nations Security Council draft resolution on Palestinian statehood, Interfax reported Sunday.

Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov said such a resolution “could serve as a starting point for the renewal of negotiations between Palestine and Israel. Considering that, Russia is prepared to support this resolution, when and if it will be put to a vote,” Interfax reported.

Bogdanov added that both the United States and Israel have done everything within their power to prevent the Palestinian Authority from heading to the United Nations. He also pointed out the possibility that the US will use its veto power if the resolution came to a vote.

Bogdanov believes that the route to Palestinian ascension in international organisations will be more complex but expressed his support for the Palestinians as they seek membership in these organisations, including the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Bogdanov pointed out that the Russian point of view on this matter greatly resembles the general European sentiment in that many countries within the region see the importance in recognising a Palestinian state, as Sweden has done recently.

Members of the Palestinian leadership have drafted a resolution for the recognition of a Palestinian state by the international community. Several international actors, including other Arab countries, have reviewed it.