S'pore to recognise Palestine in principle at appropriate time: Foreign min

Singapore is prepared in principle to recognise Palestine as a state and will make this move at an appropriate time, Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said in Parliament on Tuesday, emphasising that the country has advocated a negotiated two-state solution, consistent with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions to achieve lasting peace.

In particular, there needs to be an effective Palestinian government that accepts Israel's right to exist and categorically rejects terrorism, Dr Balakrishnan said.

Both sides have legitimate rights, and both peoples have a right to live in peace and dignity within secure borders, The Straits Times quoted the Singapore minister as saying.

He was responding to questions from parliamentarians on Singapore's May 10 decision to vote for a United Nations resolution backing the admission of Palestine as a member of the world body, which it said was made after serious and careful consideration.

Dr Balakrishnan urged both sides to seize the moment