Statement by MFA Spokesman Andrei Nesterenko Concerning Resumption of Direct Palestinian-Israeli Negotiations
1171-03-09-2010
The resumption of direct Palestinian-Israeli negotiations took place in Washington on September 1-2 as part of the activities involving the leaders of Israel and the PNA, as well as the United States, Egypt and Jordan.
We regard this event as an important outcome of the joint efforts undertaken through the Quartet of international mediators, in which Russia participated vigorously.
Now the main task is to ensure the successful progress of the dialogue begun. With this in mind, we call on both parties to show maximum responsibility and a constructive approach, a willingness to make difficult compromises in order to achieve a settlement on the universally recognized international legal basis and eventually arrive at the establishment of an independent, viable and territorially contiguous Palestinian state within 1967 borders, living side by side with Israel in peace and security.
For the success of the negotiation process it is extremely important to avoid any violence and unilateral steps that would prejudge its outcome. In this regard, an extension of the Israeli freeze on construction in the West Bank, expiring at the end of September 2010, would have a major significance.
For its part, the Russian Federation in cooperation with members of the Middle East Quartet of international mediators and with all stakeholders will actively promote the progress of the talks in an effort to achieve a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East.
September 3, 2010
