UN envoy on Middle East peace meets Palestinian Prime Minister, discusses Gaza

The United Nations official charged with coordinating the Middle East peace process said today that he is pleased by commitment made by the Palestinian Government to assume its rightful responsibilities in the Gaza Strip.

“I am encouraged by my meeting with Palestinian Prime Minister Hamdallah and the commitment of his Government to assume its rightful responsibilities in Gaza, including on the control of the crossings as well as civil service reform and integration,” said Nickolay Mladenov, UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process.

“The UN stands ready to support any constructive effort in this regard.”

Mr. Mladenov, whose mandate includes representing the Secretary-General and leading the UN system in all political and diplomatic efforts related to the peace process, also coordinates the humanitarian and development work of UN agencies and programmes in the occupied Palestinian territory, in support of the Palestinian Authority and the Palestinian people.

“The UN remains committed to supporting the reconstruction of Gaza,” he said. “With the advent of a number of large scale housing and infrastructure projects, it would be important for Israel and all stakeholders to work together and accelerate the entry of construction materials.”

Mr. Mladenov added a call for the full release of withheld tax revenues, in line with the Paris Protocol.