Call for two-state solution in Gaza

Call for peace: Anwar (right) and Scholz inspecting the guard of honour mounted by the German Army. Anwar is on a six-day visit to Germany, and held talks with Scholz where they discussed, among other issues, the conflict in Gaza and the Ukraine war. — Bernama

BERLIN: Malaysia and Germany have called for a lasting ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, as well as the release of hostages and immediate humanitarian assistance to the Palestinian people.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his German counterpart Chancellor Olaf Scholz said the international community must strive for a two-state solution to resolve the decades-long conflict in the Middle East.

“Sometimes we have some differences, but I think there are issues like the war in Gaza where we do agree on an immediate ceasefire and call for humanitarian assistance to the people of Palestine,” the Prime Minister, who is on a six-day visit to Germany, told a joint press conference with Scholz.

In their bilateral meeting, Bernama reported that both leaders discussed the Gaza conflict and a two-state solution to end decades of suffering of the Palestinian people.

Anwar said Malaysia acknowledged the concern of what happened on Oct 7, 2023, when the conflict started between Hamas and Israel, but appealed to Europe and Germany in particular to take note of the decades of atrocities, plunder and dispossession of the Palestinians.

Speaking on the issue, Scholz said Germany – known as an ally of Israel – agreed with Malaysia that a long-lasting ceasefire was needed to find a peaceful solution to the Gaza crisis.

The Chancellor said they were working closely with the United States and Arab countries to prevent the escalation of war and find a solution to the crisis.

“I wish we can find a lasting ceasefire during this Ramadan month, and the release of hostages by Hamas. This can lead to more aid entering Gaza,” said Scholz, adding that he was glad that Anwar chose to visit Germany on the first day of Ramadan and had a breaking of fast with the Malaysian delegation.

Asked whether their meeting could influence the push for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, Anwar said both countries could play their part in finding a solution.

“Well, Germany has established good relations with Israel. And we have slightly better relations with Palestine. The only solution for now is a permanent ceasefire and, ultimately, a two-state solution.

“And this can be done if the international community has the courage and the commitment,” he said.

On Malaysia’s relationship with Hamas, Anwar said the country’s foreign policy had been consistent over the years, citing its stand against apartheid and ethnic cleansing.

He said Malaysia had ties with the political wing of Hamas, stressing that the country had no relationships with any militant outfit.

Anwar also said atrocities that happened for decades could not be erased by looking at one side alone.

“The solution? Is not just releasing hostages. Yes, I did express my concern that those (hostages) must be released. But then you can say, is that all? Full stop? Period? What about the settlements?” he added.

Anwar also assured Germany that Malaysia is engaging well with China and has not encountered any serious issues.

The Prime Minister said that although Malaysia was a small country, it reserved the right to engage with most countries, mainly to ensure that its people would benefit from collaboration.

“I am very impressed with your candour, your understanding, including of what is happening in Malaysia and the region,” he told the joint press conference.

Anwar said while Malaysia acknowledged China’s growing influence and impact on regional dynamics, the country was committed to maintaining good relations with the latter while safeguarding its own sovereignty and interests.

He also emphasised the importance of constructive engagement and dialogue to address challenges arising from China’s influence in the region, including concerns over the South China Sea.

During his bilateral meeting with Scholz, Anwar said he highlighted that China was Malaysia’s top trading partner globally, with both countries celebrating an important milestone this year – the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.

On the Ukraine war, Anwar said both leaders agreed that Russia must stop its aggression there and seek a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

“It’s having ramifications in terms of trade and economic development, even as far as Asia,” he said.