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

URUGUAYAN REPRESENTATIVE:  Thank you very much, Mr. President.  Uruguay rejects and condemns 
all violations against human rights and international humanitarian law without any exception.  We hope that in all situations where the international community considers these kinds of violations, that they are examined on -- they are given an equal treatment.  
Uruguay is committed to international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians in the case of armed conflict is a priority.  Protection of civilians is a legal obligation, as stated in international humanitarian law, but it is also a moral imperative which reflects the long evolution of humankind towards more civilized forms of behavior that reflects respect for life.  
Uruguay values the work of the fact-finding mission headed by Judge Goldstone and we endorse its report.  This is a serious document which sought to investigate the very serious violations that occurred during the Cast Lead operations.  Bearing this in mind, and of course with the understanding that this report requires a careful study and followup of all the elements that it contains, we think that in particular that its recommendations should be the subject of a level-headed and thorough examination, taking into -- bearing in mind its proposals as well as the implications of these recommendations.  Such implications are difficult to predict.   
Uruguay considers that it's essential that the sides conduct their respective investigations on the facts that are described and avoid impunity, especially with respect to the most serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law.  We would like to make an appeal to the General Assembly not to politicize a topic that is as serious as this, especially so that we do not affect the negotiations underway, negotiations aimed at reaching a lasting solution to the Middle East conflict and to have a balance approach.
I would like to call on all the parties involved to live up to their commitments and obligations.  Thank you very much.