Quartet Hopes Calm Will Prevail With Palestinian National Unity Government – UN
New York, Feb 9 2007 7:00PM
Reacting to the agreement to form a Palestinian national unity Government, the diplomatic Quartet – made up of the
United Nations, Russian Federation, United States and European Union – today voiced hope that it would serve to foster
calm in the region.
In a statement released at UN Headquarters in New York following telephone talks, the grouping welcomed the role Saudi Arabia played
in reaching the agreement. “The Quartet expressed hope that the desired calm would prevail.”
While awaiting its formation, the Quartet reaffirmed previous pledges of support for a Palestinian government committed
to non-violence, recognition of Israel, and acceptance of previous agreements and obligations, including the Road map
, an outline plan that envisages two States – Israel and Palestine – living side by side in peace and security.
“Quartet members will meet February 21 in Berlin to continue their consideration of these developments, and to review
formation and implementation of the agreement on the government,” according to the statement by UN Secretary-General Ban
Ki-moon, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, HighᾠRepresentative for
European Foreign and Security Policy Javier Solana, German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier, and European
Commissioner for External Relations Benita Ferreῲo-Waldner.
The statement also welcomed a planned meeting between Ms. Rice, Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and Palestinian
National Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, set to take place on 19 February.
Last night Mr. Ban called the agreement on a national unity government a “very important step forward,” voicing the hope
that it “will curb the violence, creating a better future for the Palestinian people.” He also praised King Abdullah for
his role in helping to bring it about.
Ends