United Nations Radio

"We have had a very good exchange of views on the very serious matters of the security situation in Gaza and southern Israel."

UN Secretary-General

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon speaking to reporters after he and visiting Arab foreign ministers agreed to work closely to end the current conflict in Gaza as quickly as possible.

"I think that this meeting has provided an excellent and appropriate opportunity for us to discuss how we can bring this violence to an immediate end and restore peace and stability in the region, and also a durable peace process which can be fully respected by the parties concerned in the region."

The Secretary-General says they have agreed to work very closely, so that the Security Council can take decisive and swift and credible action for a binding resolution to bring an immediate end to this crisis and also allow humanitarian assistance to be delivered by opening the crossings.

"And we have also agreed to discuss a credible mechanism to ensure the protection of the Palestinian people, as well as humanitarian assistance, and to prevent the further occurrence of this situation. I think we have some convergence of opinions on the major elements, which can be the basis of the discussions at the Security Council."

The Secretary-General travels to Washington DC Tuesday for a meeting with President George W. Bush. He says he will take the opportunity to discuss the issue.

This is Donn Bobb reporting for United Nations Radio.

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