Secretary-General welcomes indirect peace talks between Syria and Israel

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has welcomed today’s announcement that Syria and Israel have started holding indirect peace talks aimed at resolving their long-running conflict.

The two Middle East countries confirmed that they are holding talks, under the auspices of Turkey, with the hope of reaching a comprehensive peace in accordance with the 1991 Madrid Conference terms of reference for peace.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Mr. Ban commended Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert “for taking this important step.” He also thanked Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan for his efforts.