Algeria describes the Gaza ceasefire agreement as “cautious hope and vigilant optimism”
NEW YORK (United Nations Headquarters) – Algerian Minister of State, Minister of Foreign Affairs, National Community Abroad, and African Affairs, Ahmed Attaf, highlighted that the ministerial meeting of the UN Security Council on the Palestinian issue comes just after reaching an international agreement regarding Gaza.
In an interview with the Algerian News Channel AL24 News, Minister Attaf emphasised that this “long-awaited” ceasefire agreement has been a priority for Algeria since its election to the Security Council as a non-permanent member, particularly to focus on the Palestinian issue, ceasefire, and lifting the suffering in Gaza.
“As president of the Security Council this month, we have taken on the responsibility of following up on this agreement, which revolves around three stages,” Minister Attaf said, adding that “the Security Council will ensure the implementation of this agreement, assess it in phases, and intervene to address any obstacles or flaws that may arise in its application.”
According to AL24 News, the Algerian Minister described Algeria’s position on the ceasefire agreement as “cautious optimism,” given the agreement’s delicacy, which “must be nurtured by the international community.”
“Algeria views this agreement as a step in a broader framework aimed at achieving a final and lasting solution to the Palestinian issue, which can only be achieved in accordance with international legitimacy, with the two-state solution as its core,” he added.
Since its independence, Algeria has served as a non-permanent member of the Security Council four times. Minister Attaf noted that holding the presidency of the council is “a responsibility that imposes burdens on those who assume it.”
In response to a question about Algeria’s dealings with the “Israeli” envoy at the United Nations during its presidency of the UN Security Council, Minister Attaf emphasised that “there is no such thing as implicit recognition in international relations,” adding that “Algeria fulfils its responsibilities at the UN in accordance with established traditions and norms, separate from its national positions.”
It is noteworthy that the Algerian Minister of State and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ahmed Attaf, will chair on Monday a high-level UN Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian issue.
The Security Council will hold an open session on the Palestinian issue and the Middle East under Algeria’s presidency, as the country is currently presiding over the council this month.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres will deliver a keynote address, covering Gaza, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), the two-state solution, as well as the situations in Syria and Lebanon.
In addition to the council members, several UN member states will also participate in the session.
