U.S. STATEMENT AT UNCTAD’S 54TH TRADE AND DEVELOPMENT BOARD

Delivered by Ann Low, First Secretary
U.S. Mission Geneva
October 9, 2007

Report on Assistance to the Palestinian People

On July 16, 2007, President Bush delivered a major policy speech outlining a way forward on the Israel-Palestinian conflict towards his vision of two-states – Israel and Palestine – living side by side in peace and security, which he originally outlined for the world five years ago at the UN General Assembly.

This is a time to be optimistic but hardworking, recognizing that we have many obstacles to overcome. We are deeply engaged, working with Israel and the Palestinians, our Quartet partners, moderate Arab states, and the international community to help create the conditions necessary to move forward on the Roadmap to Peace. On September 24, the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee met for the first time in two years to assist the Palestinian Authority in reforming the Palestinian economy and help build the governmental institutions and infrastructure needed to deliver services and foster private sector activity. The Ad Hoc Liaison Committee called for a donors’ conference to meet later this year. At the same time, the Prime Minister of the Palestinian Authority, Salam Fayyad, has begun taking steps to reform and revitalize the Palestinian economy, to improve conditions for long-term investment and growth and to build institutional capacity.

Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair has agreed to take on a new role as Quartet Representative. In this post, he will coordinate international efforts to help the Palestinians establish the institutions of a strong and lasting free society – including effective governing structures, a sound financial system, and the rule of law.

This year’s UNCTAD report outlines some of the major challenges faced by the Palestinian people. We particularly note UNCTAD’s previous efforts to create a stronger entrepreneurial base through its EMPRETEC assistance program. We also know that the Palestinian Authority recently requested that the Commission for Science and Technology (CSTD) conduct a science and technology innovation policy (STIP) review, recognizing that a future Palestinian state must leverage its knowledge society to be competitive in the new global economy. Likewise, we note UNCTAD’s efforts to apply its innovative customs model, ASYCUDA, to the Karni Crossing in Gaza, appreciating that sensitive security issues must still be addressed.

In sum, we urge UNCTAD and other international organizations to focus on supporting the Palestinian Authority, under President Abbas and Prime Minister Salam Fayyad. The installation of a new Palestinian government that is committed to peace has opened the door to renewed efforts to implement the two state vision laid out by President Bush in 2002 and reiterated on July 16, 2007. It is the view of the United States that all responsible nations and parties have a duty to help support the new Palestinian government.