Special Coordinator Mladenov’s statement on the resumption of private import of cement to Gaza – UNSCO statement

Statement by the United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process,
Mr. Nickolay Mladenov, on the resumption of the private import of cement into Gaza

Jerusalem, 23 May 2016

"I welcome the decision to resume the private import of cement into Gaza after nearly 45 days of suspension. This has become possible because of the efforts by both the Israeli and Palestinian authorities. All sides need to ensure that cement deliveries reach their intended beneficiaries and are used solely for civilian purposes.

The humanitarian challenges in Gaza remain vast and all efforts should be made to resolve the housing, electricity and water crises. It is critical for the security of both Palestinians and Israelis that Gaza remains calm and hope is restored to its people.

The United Nations continues to call for the full lifting of all closures on Gaza, as envisioned in Security Council Resolution 1860 (2009). A permanent end to the suffering of the Palestinian people can only be achieved through reuniting Gaza and the West Bank under a single, legitimate and democratic Palestinian national authority and the realization of the two-state solution.”

ENDS

http://www.unsco.org/Documents/Statements/SC/2016/Statement%20by%20UN%20Special%20Coordinator%20Mladenov%20-%2023%20May%202016.pdf