Clinton Again Calls for Independent Palestinian State
US Secretary of State, Hilary Clinton, has again called for an independent Palestinian state.
The call came during remarks to the press at the US State Department in Washington, following a meeting with US Special Envoy to the Middle East, George Mitchell.
Discussing political developments in the region special praise was reserved for Egypt’s leadership role in working through the complex issues concerning a ceasefire between Hamas and Israel.
”This is the first of what will be an ongoing, high level of engagement by Senator Mitchell on behalf of myself and the President.
”We are looking to work with all of the parties to try to help them make progress toward a negotiated agreement that would end the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians, create an independent and viable Palestinian state in both the West Bank and Gaza, and provide Israel with the peace and security that it has sought,” said Clinton.
Clinton added that the US government is looking forward to the results of the Israeli elections so that it can begin working with a new Israeli government.
In addition it will be working with the Palestinian Authority under President Abbas and Prime Minister Fayyad to support their efforts to continue the progress that they have made in providing security and meeting the needs of the Palestinian people.
Noting that Senator Mitchell will be returning to the region before the end of the month, Clinton added she was grateful to all of the leaders and the various countries concerned who quickly arranged their schedules to be able to meet with him.
”I’m grateful that he (Senator Mitchell) is also making clear to all of the interested parties and sides in the region who are concerned about the fate of the children on both the Israeli and the Palestinian sides of this conflict, that the United States is engaged, that we are determined and committed to working with all who will work in good faith to solve the problems that are obviously afflicting that region,” Clinton added.
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