New York (UNA/SPA) - Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar, affirmed today that the international conference for the peaceful settlement of the Palestinian issue and the implementation of the two-state solution is being held at a critical moment for the region, in light of the horrific war waged by Israel on the Gaza Strip for two years and a worsening humanitarian tragedy affecting more than two million people, most of whom are women and children.
In a statement delivered by the State of Qatar to the conference's plenary session, he noted that this historic conference addresses one of the oldest issues of peace and security and one of the last manifestations of colonial injustice on the international agenda. He expressed his thanks to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which is chairing the meeting in partnership with the French Republic.
He stated that the mediation efforts undertaken by the State of Qatar, in partnership with the Arab Republic of Egypt and the United States of America, have yielded tangible results, including the entry of large quantities of aid and the release of hundreds of prisoners and detainees from both sides.
He stated that the war on the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip not only led to unprecedented suffering among innocent civilians, but also damaged the credibility of international law. He stressed the State of Qatar's position in support of peace and the preservation of the lives and rights of civilians through diplomatic efforts to stop the bloodshed, alleviate their suffering, and release prisoners and detainees. He expressed his country's rejection and condemnation of the use of starvation, the targeting of hospitals, and the policies of blockade and forced displacement practiced against innocent civilians, in flagrant violation of international humanitarian law.
He reiterated his country's firm position in supporting a peaceful settlement of the Palestinian issue in accordance with the principles of international law and international legitimacy resolutions, and on the basis of the two-state solution, as the only viable option to end the conflict and achieve a just and comprehensive peace.
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