Maria Vamvakinou supports calls by United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan, for an immediate ceasefire in Lebanon.

2006-07-21

Maria Vamvakinou MP stated today: “Like many Australians, I am deeply disturbed by the images of destruction in Lebanon, and by the sheer scale of human suffering that is being inflicted upon its civilian population.”

“I want to voice my strong support for United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan in his calls for an immediate ceasefire in Lebanon. Every effort must be made to find a swift and peaceful solution to the current crisis in Lebanon, and any outstanding issues between the two sides must be resolved through diplomatic channels only.”

“I strongly urge the Australian government to use all diplomatic means at its disposal to help secure an immediate and peaceful resolution to the conflict in Lebanon.”

“The palpable sense of fear, anger and frustration that many in Australia’s Lebanese community have expressed is understandable. The grave fears that they hold for Lebanon and its people are completely justified.”

“It’s devastating to see a country that has worked so hard to rebuild itself over the last 15 years, loose the benefits of that effort over the last 5 days.”

“In particular, I am deeply concerned for the safety of those Australian citizens still trapped in Lebanon. It is vital that the government pursue all available avenues to ensure their immediate evacuation.”

“I am also concerned about the safety and long term welfare of Lebanon’s civilian population, especially if predictions of an impending humanitarian crisis prove correct. All efforts must be used to ensure that a humanitarian crisis in Lebanon is averted.” “The loss of innocent civilian life on either side is completely unacceptable. The people of Israel have a right to live peacefully within safe and secure borders. The people of Lebanon have the same right.”

“I question the wisdom of Israel’s actions. Israel must act as a responsible partner in ensuring overall stability in the region.” “Hezbollah has an immediate responsibility to end its conflict with Israel.”

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