Statement by the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean on the peace process in the Middle East

Statement by the

Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean 

on the peace process in the Middle East

 

 

The Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean (PAM) is strongly committed to the continuation of the peace process in order to achieve political stability in the Middle East. PAM expresses its concern regarding the possible repercussions in the region following the announcement made by the United States President, Donald Trump, about the transfer of the location of the US embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem and the status of this city.

 

At the same time, PAM equally notes the disappointment expressed by the Trump Administration on the failure of traditional diplomacy to reach any significant progress in advancing the peace process in recent years.

 

A final agreement on the permanent status issues, including Jerusalem, borders, security, settlements and water, can only be agreed upon through direct negotiations between Israel and Palestine, as part of a Two-State solution, on the basis of the relevant UN Security Council and General Assembly resolutions, with respect of Palestinian and Israeli interests to which the international community see no alternative.

 

Both Israel and Palestine are founding members of PAM, and their representatives serve as Vice Presidents of the Assembly and active members of the Bureau, which is the principal decision-making body of our Assembly. Their significant contribution to the work and mandate of the Assembly is highly appreciated by all PAM member states.

 

PAM is deeply committed to the peace process and shall continue to serve as a privileged channel for dialogue between the parliamentarians of both Israel and Palestine, as well as their neighbours. 

 

PAM will continue to do all in its capacity to contribute to the resumption of direct peace negotiations to reach a Two-State solution, which will allow for both peoples to achieve their legitimate aspirations and live on internationally respected borders, in peace and security, side by side.