G8 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (Paris, 15 March 2011) – Chairman’s summary (excerpts)/Non-UN document

G8 – Meeting of Foreign Ministers

Chairman’s Summary
Paris, March 15, 2011

Broader Middle East and North Africa

Middle East Peace Process 

Ministers are convinced that the current historic developments in the region make resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through negotiations and the further integration of Israel in its regional environment even more important.

Ministers expressed serious concern about the current stalemate in the Middle East Peace Process.

In line with previous Quartet statements, they remain committed to the conclusion of a negotiated framework agreement on all final status issues by September 2011. They also share the hope expressed by President Obama that we can have an agreement that will lead to a new member of the United Nations – an independent, sovereign State of Palestine living in peace with Israel. There is no viable alternative to the two-state solution.

Ministers considered that a long-term solution to this conflict can only be achieved through negotiations. They urged both parties to return to substantive direct talks.

Ministers commended the work of the Palestinian Authority in developing the capacity to run a democratic and peaceful state, founded on the rule of law and living in peace and security with Israel. They stressed the need to continue to support these state-building efforts, both politically and financially. They welcomed the organisation by France of a second donors’ conference this June in Paris.

Ministers called on parties to refrain from unilateral actions and to create an atmosphere conducive to peace. Ministers strongly reaffirm that unilateral actions by either party cannot prejudge the outcome of negotiations and will not be recognised by the international community. Ministers called for an end to rocket fire from Gaza and stressed the need for calm and security for both peoples. Settlement activities in territory occupied in 1967 constitute a major obstacle to peace and must stop.

Foreign Ministers stressed that peace in the Middle East should be comprehensive and reiterated the importance of negotiations on the Israeli-Syria and Israeli-Lebanon tracks.

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