Palestinian FM: Lebanon to ‘Have a Lot of Influence’ in U.N. Bid
The Palestinian foreign minister has said that the Palestinians expect their bid for United Nations recognition will receive a boost from Lebanon's taking over the presidency of the U.N. Security Council.
Riad Malki said Saturday the Palestinians will press ahead as planned with their independence bid in late September.
He said Lebanon "will have a lot of influence" in its new role and that will help the Palestinian initiative. Beirut assumes the presidency of the Security Council in September.
Israel and the U.S. strongly oppose the Palestinians’ U.N. plan, saying Palestinian statehood should only be achieved through negotiations.
The U.N. vote is largely symbolic. The Palestinians believe it will send a powerful message to Israel.
The Palestinians say they are assured nonmember state status if they turn to the General Assembly.
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