Ambassador to the UN Security Council Le Luong Minh made the statement at the council’s debate on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestine question, in New York on January 30.

The establishment of an independent Palestinian State that coexists in peace, side by side with Israel, on the basis of relevant United Nations Resolutions taking into account the legitimate rights and interests of all parties concerned remains the only viable solution, he said.

While noting the encouraging developments in the Middle-East peace progress generated by the Arab Peace Initiative and the Annapolis Conference, Ambassador Minh expressed deep concerns over recent incidents causing human losses among Palestinian and Israeli civilians and renewed tension in the region.

In the context, the ambassador calls upon all parties concerned to exercise restraint, respect international law, including international human rights and humanitarian laws and cease all acts of violence. He also urged Israel to put an end to all restrictions on the movement and business activities of the people and take steps to protect civilians and create safe conditions for the return of refugees, thus reducing tension and helping to bring the Middle East peace process back on track.

Regarding the situation in Lebanon, Vietnam called upon all parties concerned to search for compromise solutions to bring the country back to normalcy, thus contributing to regional peace and stability.

Ambassador Minh also expressed Vietnam’s appreciation and support for the role of the Quartet, the League of Arab States and the United Nations, especially the Security Council in the quest for a lasting solution to the conflict in the Middle East.