Australian Foreign Minister says country won’t be moving its embassy to Jerusalem

Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop said on Saturday that Australia has no plans to move its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.

Speaking in the aftermath of calls from the youth branch of the country’s Liberal Party – which she’s a member of – the Guardian quoted her as saying: “While I understand the sentiment behind this resolution, the Australian government will not be moving our embassy to Jerusalem. Jerusalem is a final status issue and we have maintained that position for decades and we are doing all we can to ensure that any support we give to the Palestinian Authority is only used for purposes that we determine.”

Young Liberal Federal President Josh Manuatu, who spoke in support of the resolution, said: “This motion is an opportunity for us as a party to stand in complete soldiery with Israel. To stand up for our values and to stand up for Western civilians and to send a clear message around the world that we back freedom and democracy.”

The Liberals, headed by Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, is a staunch supporter of Israel.

Following the US’ move last month, so far only Guatemala and Paraguay have followed suit, while Australia had stated back in December that it had no plans to follow the US example.