SINGAPORE: Singapore stands ready to do its part in rebuilding Gaza, following the agreement between Israel and Hamas on the first phase of a ceasefire deal, said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on Friday (Oct 10).
Speaking to reporters at the end of a six-day official visit to Australia and New Zealand, Mr Wong said that American engagement will be vital in the roadmap towards a two-state solution.
“Just as American involvement was critical in getting us to where we are now, continued American engagement will be vital in continued progress on this roadmap,” he said.
Earlier on Friday, he had posted on Facebook commending the leadership of US President Donald Trump, as well as the efforts of Qatar, Egypt, and Türkiye for helping to achieve this breakthrough.
It was reported on Friday that Israeli troops had begun pulling back from some parts of Gaza under the ceasefire deal with Hamas, and some residents have returned to shattered neighbourhoods.
Mr Wong was asked on Friday about how Singapore would be stepping up its efforts and contributing to the situation in Gaza.
“There is a lot of work to be done, particularly if the peace holds and the next steps are taken in the rebuilding of Gaza,” he said.
“You can imagine huge, tremendous efforts are needed to rebuild Gaza, and we will certainly look forward to doing our part in this process.”
He said that Singapore has already “leaned forward” and stepped up its capacity-building programmes for Palestinians, including scholarships for them.
Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam said on Thursday that such scholarships are among ground-led initiatives by Singapore to help Palestinians.
Mr Wong said the next steps are still unclear as the governing structure is still unknown.
“But we have very good relations with the Palestinian Authority. We will continue to be in touch with them, with Americans and other key players in this process, to see how Singapore can play a helpful role,” he said.
