New york: The High-Level International Conference on the Peaceful Settlement of the Palestinian Issue and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution commenced at the UN General Assembly headquarters in New York. Co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France, the conference will continue until July 30. In his opening remarks, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres underscored that the two-state solution is the only credible path to achieving a just and lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians, and is the "essential condition" for peace in the wider Middle East.
According to Qatar News Agency, Guterres expressed gratitude to the co-hosting countries, emphasizing the persistent nature of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, which has defied hope, diplomacy, and international law while continuing to claim lives and destabilize the region. He asserted that the conflict's continuation is not inevitable, and its resolution is possible with political will and courageous leadership. He described the conference as a "rare and indispensable opportunity" for achieving irreversible progress toward ending the occupation and fulfilling the aspirations of a two-state solution.
Guterres further highlighted the tragic conditions in Gaza, condemning the "wholesale destruction" and unilateral measures undermining the two-state solution. His remarks were echoed by French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, who emphasized the need for the conference to be a turning point for implementing the two-state solution. Barrot stressed the importance of achieving peace and security for both Palestinians and Israelis, stating that there is no alternative to the two-state solution.
Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammed Mustafa expressed that the conference carries a promise to the Palestinian people, asserting that the historical injustice they face must end. He emphasized the need for independence and the recognition of Palestinian rights to achieve shared peace and prosperity in the region.
Secretary-General of the League of Arab States Ahmed Aboul Gheit highlighted the illusion of normalization without ending the occupation. He stressed the commitments made by various countries and organizations within the "Peace Day" efforts and the "Peace Support Package" sponsored by the European Union, which could be provided if the two-state solution is implemented.
The conference aims to address the longstanding conflict and work towards a viable and sovereign Palestinian state, with the collaboration of international and regional stakeholders.