On 16-17 December special representatives of the Middle East quartet of international observers (Russia, the United States, the EU and the UN) met in Jerusalem and Ramallah with officials from the staff of the prime minister and the Foreign Ministry of Israel, as well as the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) and the Palestinian National Authority (PNA), to discuss the situation “on the ground” and concrete action to demonstrate Israeli and Palestinian commitments to a two-state solution.
The special representatives strongly condemned all acts of terrorism and stressed the need to resolutely oppose the incitement of violence and work to deescalate the situation.
The special representatives reiterated the need for practical steps “on the ground” in keeping with the earlier agreements, which are designed to strengthen Palestinian state institutions, security and economic prospects in addressing Israel’s legitimate security concerns.
The special representatives will study the results of their recent contacts with the parties and states in the region and brief their leaders accordingly, including recommendations regarding subsequent steps.
