June 21
Deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard says she is not surprised that her upcoming visit to Israel has sparked opposition at home.
Labor colleagues have expressed concerns about the dialogue with Israeli leaders this week.
MP Julia Irwin, an executive member of the Australian Parliamentary Friends of Palestine group, has said the trip to Israel is unnecessary.
And several other MPs voiced concern during a recent caucus meeting.
Ms Gillard said it was hardly surprising that there are a range of views on the issue.
"There's obliviously a debate, a very real debate about matters in the middle east, and so I suppose a politician's visit ... is going to be remarked upon,'' Ms Gillard told ABC television.
Labor are "strong friends and supporters'' of Israel.
The party strongly supports "a two state solution, with secure borders to recognise the needs and aspirations of the Palestinian people.''
"That will be my message in Israel,'' she said.
Ms Gillard is leading the delegation to the inaugural Australia Israel Leadership Forum, which includes former treasurer Peter Costello, Liberal frontbenchers Chris Pyne and George Brandis, and Labor backbenchers Mike Kelly and Mark Dreyfus.
Article from: The Australian
Posts
