Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

I would like to thank the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People for inviting me, in my capacity as President of the Security Council, to address the Special Commemorative Meeting in observance of the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the conclusion of Oslo Accords which remind us that a lasting solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict can only be achieved by peaceful means through dialogue and negotiations. Bearing in mind its relevant resolutions, the Council remains fully committed to a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East.

Mr. Chairman,

Over the past year, the Security Council has remained seized of the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question. The Security Council received monthly briefings on the situation from the Secretary-General's Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process and the Department of Political Affairs and held open debates on a quarterly basis. Meetings were convened in response to the situation around the Gaza Strip. The Security Council also continued to receive the Secretary-General's reports in briefings by the Special Coordinator every three months and received one in written form in June.

The situation in the Middle East remains a concern for the Council. The Council members express concerns regarding the deterioration of the situation in the Gaza Strip and call for increased international support to alleviate its humanitarian and economic situation. The Council members condemn all violence and hostilities directed against civilians and all acts of terrorism. The Council members reiterate their call for the resumption of peace negotiations as soon as possible and for intensified efforts.

Mr. Chairman,

The Council, in conformity with the Charter of the United Nations, remains committed to the achievement of just, lasting and peaceful solution in order to achieve peace and security that the Israeli and Palestinian people both need and deserve.