Secretary-General Reiterates Urging of Israel to Fulfil Obligation on Settlements

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General takes note with regret that Israel will not heed the united call of the international community, as reflected by the Quartet, to extend the settlement restraint policy.  He reiterates his urging Israel to fulfil its Road Map obligation to freeze all settlement activity in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem.

In spite of this setback, the Secretary-General believes it is more important than ever to promote a negotiated end-game for a two-State solution.  He is encouraged that the United States has indicated its determination to continue its efforts in this direction and he urges the full cooperation of the parties towards that end. He is looking forward to these matters being discussed in the days to come among all members of the Quartet.

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For information media • not an official record