The Middle East Quartet — comprising of the United Nations, Russia, and the European Union – today welcomed the resumption of direct talks between Israel and Palestine.
In a statement, Quartet commends both the Israeli and Palestine leadership “for taking this courageous decision” in the interest of their peoples, and expressed its determination to lend its effective support to the efforts of the parties and their shared commitment to achieve a negotiated two-state solution within the agreed timeframe of nine months.
Recalling its previous statements, the Quartet called on all parties to take every possible step to promote conditions conducive to the success of the negotiating process and to refrain from actions that undermine trust.
Appreciating the efforts of US President Barack Obama, and Secretary of State John Kerry in helping the parties reach agreement to resume negotiations, the Quartet commends the Arab League for its constructive role in support of renewed negotiations, including its reaffirmation of the Arab Peace Initiative, recognizes many others in the international community for their important contributions, and expresses hope that such efforts will continue.
While noting that much hard work lies ahead, the Quartet expresses its hope that renewed negotiations will be substantive and continuous and set a clear path towards a two-state solution, the end of conflict, and lasting peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians.
The Quartet intends to meet soon at the envoys level to discuss next steps, the statement said.