Discorso pronunciato dall’Ambasciatore Sebastiano Cardi, Rappresentante Permanente dell’Italia presso le Nazioni Unite, al Meeting in Consiglio di Sicurezza sulla situazione in Medio Oriente, inclusa la Questione Palestinese —
I thank Mr. Mladenov for his briefing, I also would like to welcome the continuous personal engagement of Secretary-General on this issue.
Mr. President,
following the recent declarations on Jerusalem by the President of the United States, Italy joined other seven members of the Security Council in requesting this meeting.
Italy’s position on Jerusalem remains unchanged. It continues to be consistent with that expressed by the European Union and with the international consensus based on the relevant United Nations resolutions.
We believe that the status of Jerusalem as the future capital of two States needs to be negotiated between Israel and Palestine, within the framework of a peace process that will eventually lead to the establishment of two States, living side by side in peace and security, taking into account the legitimate concerns and aspirations of both parties.
Until that moment, Italy will continue to abide by the relevant United Nations resolutions and will maintain its Embassy to Israel in Tel Aviv.
We are now very concerned by the risk of unrest and tensions in the region. We call on all actors in Palestine and in the Middle East to show responsibility, exercise restraint and refrain from any form of violence or incitement.
Mr. President,
as the Secretary-General affirmed in his statement on Wednesday, there is no alternative to the two-State solution. Therefore, Italy reiterates its commitment to working to that aim, together with the members of the European Union and other regional and international partners, and to contributing to the resumption of a meaningful peace process.
I thank you.
