Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and United Nations (UN) Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Tor Wennesland held talks on the prospects of a peaceful resolution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, following the conclusion of its intense phase, the Russian Foreign Ministry reported.
"The participants focused on the possibilities of reviving the peace process for the Palestinian-Israeli settlement post-conflict. Both parties highlighted the relevance of the two-state solution, which envisions the establishment of an independent and autonomous State of Palestine within the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, living in peace and security alongside Israel," the diplomatic office observed.
The discussion delved into the current state of affairs in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict zone, particularly in the Gaza Strip. Amidst the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region, the urgency of an immediate ceasefire, unimpeded access for all victims and those in need, and the release of hostages was underscored. Sergey Lavrov condemned the Hamas attack on October 7, but stressed that it should not be exploited as a justification for punishing millions of Palestinians collectively.
Furthermore, the conversation covered the broader Middle East situation, including the escalating tensions between Israel and Lebanon, Israel's arbitrary attacks on Syrian territory, and the instability in the Red Sea.
On April 10, Wennesland also convened separate meetings with Russian Presidential Special Envoy for the Middle East and Africa, Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov. During these discussions, they emphasized the need for "the mobilization of collective international efforts to bring an immediate halt to the violence in the Gaza Strip and to initiate a comprehensive Middle East peace process." The diplomatic department noted, "It was emphasized that without a fair resolution to the Palestinian issue, achieving lasting and sustainable stability in the Middle East is unattainable."
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: Russian Foreign Ministry
Based on materials from TASS