Cannes, France, 4 November 2011 – Readout of the Secretary-General's meeting with H.H. Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates
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The Secretary-General and the Foreign Minister also discussed the Middle East peace process and the Palestine membership issue following the decision by the General Conference of the Âé¶¹APP Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization. The Secretary-General emphasized that now is the time for all sides to exercise restraint so as to step back from the collision course. The Secretary-General expressed his intention to work with the Palestinians, the Israelis, and all other interested parties to that end.
The Secretary-General reiterated deep concern at the recent decision announced by the Government of Israel regarding settlement activity.
The Secretary-General also underlined his support for the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinians to have a viable sovereign state. While noting that admission into UN specialized agencies was a decision for Member States, the Secretary-General expressed his concern over the potential impact it would have on the work of these organizations for millions of people around the world.
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Document Sources: Secretary-General
Country: United Arab Emirates
Subject: Peace process, Settlements, Statehood-related
Publication Date: 04/11/2011