PRESS STATEMENT ON MIDDLE EAST BY SECURITY COUNCIL PRESIDENT

PRESS STATEMENT ON MIDDLE EAST BY SECURITY COUNCIL PRESIDENT

Following is today’s press statement on the Middle East by Security Council President Emyr Jones Parry (United Kingdom):

Security Council members met this afternoon at the request of the Non-Aligned Movement caucus and Arab Group to discuss the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question, and in particular the Israeli decision in principle to expel Chairman Arafat.

Council members expressed the view that the removal of Chairman Arafat would be unhelpful and should not be implemented. 

Council members condemned all violence and urged both sides to act with maximum restraint.

Council members recalled the efforts of the international community to pursue the Road Map and urged both parties to implement their obligations.

Council members agreed to keep the matter under active review.

Council members will hear a briefing by Mr. Roed-Larson on Monday,

15 September, which will be followed by an open debate.  

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