Qatar calls for two-state solution for lasting peace

Qatar joined the Global Alliance for the Implementation of the Two-State Solution at a high-level ministerial meeting held on the sidelines of the 81st UN General Assembly in New York. Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh al-Khulaifi, Qatar's Minister of State, represented the country at the event. In his address, Dr. al-Khulaifi commended Saudi Arabia, Norway, and the European Union for their role in organizing the meeting and advancing the two-state solution, which is widely accepted as the way to reach a comprehensive, just, and enduring resolution to the Palestinian issue and achieve lasting peace in the Middle East.

He emphasized that the two-state solution involves establishing an independent, sovereign, and viable Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, living in peace alongside Israel and gaining international recognition and full UN membership. Dr. al-Khulaifi praised the nations that have recognized the State of Palestine and called on all countries to do the same, asserting that this approach would ensure peace and security for all, ending the decades-long injustice perpetrated by the occupation and its unlawful practices, as affirmed by the international community, the United Nations, and the International Court of Justice.

He highlighted that Qatar has consistently strived to achieve a peaceful settlement of the Palestinian issue and establish peace in the Middle East, reflecting its steadfast commitment to resolving conflicts through peaceful means and solidarity with the Palestinian people. Qatar has played an active role in various international forums, including the coalition, the United Nations, the League of Arab States, and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.

Dr. al-Khulaifi also mentioned that the events of the past year have posed an unprecedented threat to the two-state solution, with Israeli actions such as the occupation of West Bank lands, expansion of illegal settlements, and the violation of holy sites exacerbating the situation. He noted that Qatar has condemned these violations and called on the international community to address them through international law and legitimacy, creating conditions conducive to the two-state solution.

He stressed that the war on the Gaza Strip, which constitutes an integral part of Palestinian territory, poses a severe threat to the two-state solution, peace, security, and stability. Qatar has made significant efforts, alongside Egypt, the United States, and Turkiye, to achieve a ceasefire agreement and continues to support the peace plan for Gaza and UN Security Council Resolution 2803.

Dr. al-Khulaifi affirmed Qatar's commitment to ongoing diplomatic and humanitarian efforts to alleviate suffering and improve conditions for the Palestinian people, continuing to provide relief and development support through the UN system.