Is Rudd compromising Israel for a seat on the U.N. Security Council?
As Governor-General Quentin Bryce prepares to travel to Africa on an official visit on Monday, speculation is growing about the role she will play in gaining Australia a seat on the United Nations Security Council…compromising existing foreign policy.Shadow Foreign Minister Julie Bishop has released text from an email sent by a representative of the G-G to ABC Radio which states: “Can I suggest that the interview focus on that trip, which is all about Australia’s bid for a seat on the Security Council?”
On the basis if the text, Bishop said: “Given that the Rudd Government campaign for a temporary seat is becoming politically contentious, the Opposition believes there is a danger the the office of the Governor-General risks becoming embroiled in controversy.”
She points out there are growing perceptions that the Rudd Government is compromising long-held foreign policy positions in its bid to gain the seat.
Ms Bishop expressed concern yesterday that the Rudd Government has failed to explain why it decided in late 2008 to vote against Israel in the U.N. concerning activities in the Palestinian territories. She added that the resolution supported by Australia “did not recognise or note violence against Israel and its citizens.”
