Annan Hails Civil Society Participation In Search For Middle East Peace
New York, Jul 12 2005
The support of civil society is indispensable in all efforts to achieve peace in the Middle East, Secretary-General Kofi
Annan told an international conference today held under the auspices of the United Nations Committee the Exercise of the
Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People.
"The United Nations, for its part, will spare no effort in advancing the peace process and, meanwhile, continuing to
help the Palestinians cope with socio-economic hardship," he said in a message delivered to the meeting in Paris by the Director-General of the UN Office at Geneva, Sergei Ordzhonikidze.
The two-day UN International Conference of Civil Society in Support of Middle East Peace, being held at the headquarters
of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), was mandated by General Assembly resolutions 59/28 and 59/29 of 1 December 2004.
It will provide civil society organizations from all regions of the world with an opportunity to discuss the situation
on the ground, develop action-oriented proposals in support of Middle East peace, and coordinate their activities in
promoting a peaceful settlement of the question of Palestine.
Non-governmental organization (NGO) representatives and other participants will have an opportunity to discuss issues of
particular interest to civil society organizations. It is envisaged that a plan of action will be adopted by
participants at the close of the Conference.
"This conference is a fine example of the evolution that has taken place in the relationship between the United Nations
and non-governmental organizations – a relationship that goes back to the Charter itself," Mr. Annan declared, saying he
was encouraged by the progress achieved since February's summit between Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Israeli
Prime Minister Ariel Sharon.
But, he added: "Despite some progress on the ground, the world community remains concerned about the continuing
expansion of settlements, construction of the barrier in the West Bank, and acts of violence. The parties have been
reminded repeatedly of their obligations under the Road Map, and of the need to refrain from actions that could prejudge
the outcome of the final status negotiations."
The Road Map peace plan, drawn up by the UN, European Union (EU), Russia and the United States, calls for parallel and reciprocal
steps by Israel and the Palestinians leading to two States living in peace and security, originally targeted for the end
of this year.
ENDS