Mideast situation – SecGen’s Mideast visit (Egypt) – Press release

Weekly News Summary

Press Release WS/1183

8 June 1984

SECRETARY-GENERAL BEGINS TEN-DAY VISIT TO MIDDLE EAST

The Secretary-General held two days of extensive talks with President Mohamed Hosni Hubarak of Egypt and other leaders of that nation as he began a five-nation visit to the Middle East on Tuesday, 5 June.

The talks focused on possible approaches to a global solution to the Middle East problem, with special reference to the General Assembly's call for an international conference and the Secretary-General's own suggestions for discussions in the Security Council.

Another major topic discussed was the conflict between Iran and Iraq. The Secretary-General stressed his readiness to go to the area, should his presence be necessary and desired by both parties.

African issues were also discussed, including the problems of Namibia and apartheid, economic aid, drought relief, and assistance to refugees. (Press Release SG/T/1253 of 6 June 1984)

The Middle Bast was again the focus of talks held by the Secretary-General with Syrian President Hafez Al-Assad and other leaders of that country as he arrived in Damascus Thursday, 7 June, for a two-day visit. The talks touched on possible new approaches to a solution, and ways to reactivate the negotiating process. The President also explained Syria's position regarding the situation, in Lebanon. The conflict between Iran and Iraq was also discussed.

On Friday, 8 June, Mr. Perez de Cuellar planned to inspect the United Nations forces in the Golan Heights before leaving for Beirut on Saturday.

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