Middle East peace process – SecGen press conference at Geneva (excerpts)

TRANSCRIPT OF THE SECRETARY-GENERAL’S PRESS CONFERENCE AT THE UNITED NATIONS OFFICE AT GENEVA ON 12 DECEMBER

12 December 2008

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It is a year which I hope will bear fruit in the Middle East. Somewhat below the radar, Israelis and Palestinians have been engaged in direct, intensive negotiations, and have created trust and a framework where none existed only two years ago. They are setting the stage for peace, and are determined to continue. It is up to the international community to help them realize that long-elusive dream. In that regard, I am going to convene an important Quartet meeting on 15 December in New York together with Arab partners.