UN chief stresses two-state solution on Day of Solidarity with Palestinians

UNITED NATIONS, Nov. 29 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres Wednesday stressed that the two-state solution remains the only viable option for lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians.

"I remain convinced that the two-state solution ... is the only premise for a just, lasting and comprehensive peace between Israelis and Palestinians," said Guterres.

He made the remarks in a message on the occasion of the International Day of Solidarity With the Palestinian People, which is generally observed on Nov. 29 each year to mark the anniversary of UN General Assembly Resolution 181.

Seventy years since the adoption of Resolution 181, which provides for the Partition Plan for Palestine, a sovereign and independent state of Palestine has yet to emerge alongside Israel, said Guterres.

He encouraged leaders of Israel and Palestine to tangibly demonstrate their commitment to a negotiated peace and create the conditions for a return to meaningful negotiations.

The recent positive developments on intra-Palestinian unity should be harnessed by all to move the process in the right direction, he noted.

"I reiterate my readiness to work with all stakeholders, including the Middle East Quartet and countries in the region, to support a serious political process, drawing on all relevant UN resolutions, international law and agreements, that will realize a two-state solution, end half a century of occupation and resolve all final status issues," he said.

He added that "now is the time to end the conflict by establishing an independent Palestinian State, living side by side in peace and security with the state of Israel."

The resolution of this conflict would create momentum for greater stability throughout the region, he said. Enditem