New York, 10 February 2011 – Readout of the Secretary-General's meeting with Defence Minister Ehud Barak of the State of Israel
The Secretary-General and Defence Minister Barak discussed efforts to move the Middle East peace process forward. The Secretary-General emphasized that it was vital to break the current stalemate and progress towards resolving all final status issues. In that regard he urged the Government of Israel's full engagement with the Quartet.
The Secretary-General took positive note of the recent announcement by the Government of Israel of additional measures for Gaza and the West Bank, including transfer of security in Area B and measures in Area C. He also urged the Defence Minister to facilitate the full implementation of the announced measures and take further steps to ease the suffering in Gaza. The Secretary-General noted with appreciation Minister Barak's confirmation that preparations for the IDF's withdrawal from northern Ghajar, as called for in Security Council resolution 1701 (2006), were on track. The Secretary-General and the Defence Minister also discussed the regional situation.
Document Sources: Secretary-General, United Nations Department of Public Information (DPI)
Country: Israel
Subject: Gaza Strip, Middle East situation, Peace process, Security issues
Publication Date: 10/02/2011