SECRETARY-GENERAL WELCOMES ISRAELI MEASURES IN PALESTINIAN TERRITORIES, BUT SAYS DECISIVE ASPECT WILL BE IMPLEMENTATION

SECRETARY-GENERAL WELCOMES ISRAELI MEASURES IN PALESTINIAN TERRITORIES,

BUT SAYS DECISIVE ASPECT WILL BE IMPLEMENTATION

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan:

The Secretary-General had a meeting yesterday with the Foreign Minister of Israel, Shimon Peres, who informed him about serious attempts that are being made to achieve a ceasefire, as well as measures that Israel is taking to relieve the pressure on the population in the Palestinian territories.

The Secretary-General feels that it would indeed be very encouraging if these measures are taken.  He welcomes any measures that have the effect of easing living conditions in the territories and facilitating movement and exchange between them and the outside world, as well as allowing easier access for humanitarian organizations.  He stresses, however, that it is the implementation of such measures that will be decisive.  His staff will be closely following developments on the ground.

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