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Establishment of new Palestinian Government ‘positive step forward’ – Ban Ki-moon

Establishment of new Palestinian Government ‘positive step forward’ – Ban Ki-moon

Ban Ki-moon
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon views the establishment of the new Palestinian government as “an important and positive step forward” and wants to encourage that process, his spokesperson emphasized today at a press briefing in New York.

The Secretary-General leaves this week for his first official trip to the Middle East since taking office in January, with stops scheduled in Egypt, the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Israel, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and Lebanon.

Ms. Montas explained that Mr. Ban had earlier expressed disappointment regarding the new government’s programme “because he would like to see the programme of the National Unity Government fully reflect Quartet principles.” These include commitments to non-violence, recognition of Israel and acceptance of previously signed agreements between Israel and the Palestinians.

“He will be watching very carefully the new Government’s actions and hopes to see further positive movement in that direction,” Ms. Montas added.