Panelists at the maiden interactive programme titled: “Borderline debate” have underscored the need for constant dialogue to proffer lasting solution to crisis in the Middle East.
The panelists made this point during the Borderline Debate, organised by the Nigerian Info FM on Thursday in Abuja,
Their discussion focused on the war in the Middle East between Israel and Palestine, as well as diverse views and insight about challenges to proffer lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian crisis.
Prof. Mukhtar Imam, Professor of Political Science and International Relations Al-Muhibba Open University, emphasised the need to uphold historical dialogue to tackle the Middle East crisis.
Imam said, “You can never rewrite history of the Middle East. When you look at all these you will realise that this is not about religion, the reality of this is geopolitics playing out.”
Prof. Anthony Kila, International Director of Studies for the Europe, Centre of Advance Professional Studies, said looking at the Israel-Palestine issue from historical perspective will help to drive sustainable solution.
“Doing so should be the priority on both sides, to tackle issues about security, territorial boundaries, settlement, reduce violence and promote peaceful coexistence.
“I believe that life trunmp principles, ego, and that at some point a new leadership from Palestine and Israel need to come to some point to say, regardless of who is right, nobody dies again,” Kila said.
A former Minister of Aviation, Mr Fani Kayode said, “The killing of innocent civilians in the ongoing Israel-Palestine war should be stopped. It should be a no-no going forward to ensure peace is restored.
“Everyone, irrespective of race or religion should be seen as equals, to promote fundamental human rights. There should be a two-state party solution through abiding by the UN resolution,” Kayode said.
Meanwhile, Amb. Ambdullah Shawesh, Ambassador of Palestine to Nigeria, narrated that the issue about Israel-Palestine can be traced from historical records according to the holy books.
The Borderline Debate is a high-profile dialogue platform by diplomats, academia and policymakers designed to promote dialogue about global issues.
The event which attracted participants from Jewish community and Muslim community in Abuja, as well as diplomats, centered on foreign policy and geopolitics with the aim of promoting dialogue as tool for peaceful resolution of conflict.
