Explanation of Vote (EOV) by Panama before the General Assembly 64th Session

Vote on Report of Fact Finding Mission on Gaza Conflict

New York( 

5 November 2009

PANAMANIAN REPRESENTATIVE:  Mr. President, the current resolution that we have just adopted u
rges the government of Israel and the Palestinian Authority to conduct independent, credible investigations in line with the international standards on the alleged violations and this within a deadline of three months.
The Republic of Panama has always complied with the principals of the United Nations charter and we support all multilateral efforts aimed at achieving a lasting peace to the Middle East conflict.
Now Panama would like to echo the international consensus in favor of renewing the peace process that will lead to a lasting peace where each side will have its own state and secure borders.  However, Panama has some serious concerns about the objectivity of the language used in the text of the resolution because, in fact, it prejudges the outcome of the investigations that have to be carried out, both by the government of Israel, as well as the Palestinian Authority, as well as referring the outcome of those investigations to the Security Council.  
Now Panama has always set a high store for the respect for human rights and it's important for perpetrators to be held accountable.  However, this cannot be done on the basis of a resolution which prejudges the results of the investigations.  The investigation process should be just credible and independent.  This is why the Republic of Panama voted against the draft resolution.  Thank you very much, Mr. President.