T&T's Progressive Stance - Recognizing Palestine and Upholding International Law
October 10, 2024
Aligning Foreign Policy with National Principles
A country's foreign policy must be situated within the context of what it holds noble at the national level and what is buttressed in the rule of law. In other words, its foreign policy must be a reflection of what a country espouses on the international plane that it upholds at the national level.
Trinidad and Tobago’s Recognition of Palestine
As a sovereign state, which continually advocates for the right of peoples to self-determination and the inviolability of sovereign borders, Trinidad and Tobago has now added another progressive layer to its foreign policy through its recognition of Palestine as a State. By doing so, it has joined 145 Member States of the United Nations in recognizing Palestine’s statehood. This move is consistent with the right of all peoples to self-determination and the right to resist occupation and colonial domination. These rights are what international lawyers refer to as jus cogens norms, which must be followed and upheld by all states.
Establishing Diplomatic Relations with Palestine
UMROBI applauds Trinidad and Tobago's progressive decision to establish diplomatic relations with Palestine. Through this move, Palestine is now further empowered in its right to exist among the community of nations as an equal partner. This step also strengthens Palestine's diplomatic presence on the international stage.
Small States Making a Global Impact
Small States can and have made a difference on the international plane. Trinidad and Tobago, through its recent foreign policy statements on the long-standing issue of Palestine, demonstrates that its UN membership is not merely symbolic but rooted in the practical application of international legal principles. By recognizing Palestine and establishing diplomatic relations, Trinidad and Tobago acts in accordance with the UN Charter, relevant UN General Assembly resolutions, and those of the UN Security Council.
A Step Toward Lasting Peace in the Middle East
UMROBI is encouraged by the growing momentum at the international level for genuine efforts to implement the two-state solution. Without this solution, there remains no credible alternative to resolving the Palestinian issue and achieving lasting peace in the Middle East.