The non-existent, geo-political construct known as the “State of Palestine” will next year preside over the largest bloc of developing nations at the United Nations.
The Group of 77, which has grown to encompass 135 countries since its formation in 1964, was formed as a collective to represent its members’ economic interests and boost their bargaining power through mutual agreement. It now represents a total 80 per cent of the world’s population.
The New York Times reported Tuesday that Palestinian Ambassador to the UN Riyad Mansour told them, “We will be negotiating on behalf of 135 countries.”
“[The US and Israel] are still denying we are a state,” Mr. Mansour continued. “We walk like a state. We quack like a state. Therefore we are a state.”
The Palestinian mission to the UN was granted non-state observer status in 2012, which made it eligible to join bodies such as the International Criminal Court and UNESCO. Three years later, the GA also voted to allow the Palestinian flag to be raised outside the UN headquarters in New York City.
An observer state cannot vote on General Assembly resolutions.
The Group of 77 began with 77 countries, including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Thailand and India. Over the years it has grown to include countries such as South Africa, Qatar, Cuba, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Singapore, and Angola. It represents some 80 percent of the world’s population.
Egypt currently holds the group’s presidency until December 31.
Israel’s Ambassador to the UN Danny Danon pointed out the inherent problems with the appointment.
“The goal of the Group of 77 originally was to facilitate the economic advancement of underdeveloped nations,” he told the Times of Israel. “It is unfortunate that it will now become a platform for spreading lies and incitement. This will not promote the G-77’s goals, and encourages the Palestinians to not engage in negotiations for peace.”
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