Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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September 17, 2009
Today, the Security Council held its monthly briefing on the Middle East. UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Robert Serry stated that the Palestinian Authority is ready for independence. He noted that in August, it announced plans to complete the establishment of state institutions within two years.
"Today, the Palestinian Authority is more than just a partner in the peace process. We have a player ready to fulfill its responsibilities, determined to pursue its rights, and it certainly needs the support of Israel, the region, and the entire world," Robert Serry emphasized. He added that the Palestinian Authority's efforts to improve the economic and security situation will be an important complement to the peace process.
The UN Special Coordinator called on Israel and Palestinian leaders to seize the opportunity next week to resume the political process aimed at achieving the goal of a two-state solution and long-term stability in the region.
Robert Serry believes that the meeting of the Quartet on the Middle East peace process, which will take place on September 24, should serve as a basis for restarting negotiations.
A UN representative said the situation in Gaza remains unstable and UN Security Council Resolution 1860, which calls for an end to armed clashes in Gaza, remains unimplemented.
"There's an uneasy unofficial calm there, but the situation is very fragile and violent incidents continue," the Special Coordinator noted. He warned that while taking steps to restart the political process, the Gaza Strip must not be forgotten and the situation in the area must not deteriorate further.
Robert Serry expressed concern over the Hamas leader's statement that the Palestinian group continues to purchase and smuggle weapons into the Gaza Strip.
The UN representative also drew the attention of Council members to the ongoing Israeli blockade of the Strip and the construction of Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories.
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