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Secretary-General says there is need for direct Israeli-Palestinian talks
United Nations Secretary-General has underlined the need for direct talks between Israelis and Palestinians to resolve their conflict.
SG with other Quartet members
The Secretary-General was speaking in Jerusalem on Sunday following a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
He said his visit to the Middle East was taking place at a crucially important juncture when the Israelis and Palestinians are about to begin proximity talks.
These are talks between the two sides without meeting face to face.
The Secretary-General pointed out that the Quartet, made up of the United Nations, the European Union, Russia and the United States, supports these proximity talks.
He said the Quartet believes that these talks should lead to direct negotiations between the two concerned parties, discussing all matters, including security, borders and refugees.
He pledged that as the Secretary-General of the United Nations and a member of the Quartet, he will spare no efforts to strongly support and encourage the search for a resolution.
He added that he will try to encourage Arab leaders to support and encourage these proximity talks because they are not only in the interest of the Palestinian and Israeli people but also of the region.
Dianne Penn, United Nations Radio
(duration: 1'15")
