U.N. racism conference at impasse
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A U.N. conference on racism sought an accord Sept. 5 on a South African-proposed draft text on the Middle East that could break an impasse threatening to derail the meeting in Durban, South Africa.
A spokesman for the European Union said Sept. 4 that the new wording "provided an acceptable basis for negotiation" but declined to give further details.
The conference was plunged into crisis Sept. 3, when the United States and Israel pulled out in protest at language in drafts that branded Israel as racist for its treatment of Palestinians in the occupied territories.
Although it has not openly threatened to follow the U.S. lead and abandon the conference, the EU also has made it clear that it also rejects the singling out of Israel for condemnation.
U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell said he had instructed the U.S. delegation to return home, citing "hateful language" proposed for the final conference statement
In Jerusalem, Israeli Foreign Minister Shimon Peres made a similar announcement, saying the conference had become a "bizarre show" and "an unbelievable attempt to smear Israel."
The U.S. pullout triggered a storm of criticism, including harsh words from South Africa and African-American activists who accused Washington of seizing on the Middle East to avoid uncomfortable conference themes such as past slavery.
大荒れの国連人種差別撤廃会議
世界人種差別撤廃会議で、イスラエルを非難する決議が検討されているとして、イスラエルと米国が代表団を引き揚げ、会議は大荒れとなった。
Shukan ST: Sept. 14, 2001
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