The UN, despite its obvious failings, remains indispensable, he said, but noted the need to reform it.
WASHINGTON – Singapore retains a sobering yet hopeful perspective on the escalating conflict in the Middle East and stands ready to extend more humanitarian assistance.
The grim outlook notwithstanding, Dr Balakrishnan said he has seen a glimmer of hope in meetings with his counterparts at the UNGA. “I think all my counterparts in the Middle East are ultra-realistic that the prospects for a quick resolution are very, very low. The timeline for peace remains uncertain but it is critical for the international community to “continue to persuade, cajole, make the case for all those directly involved in the conflict”, Dr Balakrishan said.demanding that Israel end its “unlawful presence” in GazaThe vote in the 193-member world body was 124-14, with 43 abstentions that included the United States, Israel’s closest ally.
Beyond the immediate conflicts, Dr Balakrishnan also spoke of efforts under way to make the nearly 79-year-old UN better able to solve the many crises at a time of low trust between major powers.
Malaysia Latest News, Malaysia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Singapore investors are more conservative than peers in Asia and the Middle EastIn terms of asset classes, majority of investors in Singapore hold stocks and equities.
Read more »
Singapore firms eye under-tapped India and Middle East markets for overseas expansionSBF and HSBC have joined hands to support the businesses in their efforts.
Read more »
Singapore investors more conservative than peers in Asia and Middle EastIn terms of asset classes, the majority of investors here hold stocks and equities.
Read more »
Singapore-China relations a 'very bright spot' in a volatile world: Vivian BalakrishnanSingapore and China are committed to deepening their bilateral relationship, encouraging more exchanges among their people, and maintaining peace and stability in the region. Singapore Foreign Affairs Minister Vivian Balakrishnan met senior Chinese officials in Beijing today.
Read more »
Singapore-China relations a ‘bright spot’ in volatile world, Vivian tells Wang YiThe Singapore Foreign Minister is on a two-day official trip to Beijing.
Read more »
White House warns all sides against ‘escalation’ in Middle East after Lebanon blasts“The best way to… prevent another front from opening up in Lebanon, is through diplomacy,” said a White House spokesman.
Read more »