Co-Chairs Issue Joint Statement On Two-State Solution And Peace In Palestine

The leaders of France and Saudi Arabia, co-chairs of the High-Level International Conference on the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine, praised the nations that gathered at the United Nations in New York on 22 September 2025. This meeting occurred during a critical period for peace and stability in the Middle East.

The conference resulted in the adoption of the New York Declaration, which was overwhelmingly supported by 142 votes in the General Assembly. This declaration reaffirms global commitment to a Two-State solution, aiming to create a better future for Palestinians, Israelis, and others in the region.

It is crucial for the international community to transition from rhetoric to action. The efforts of seventeen working group co-chairs have been instrumental in outlining steps for implementing the Two-State solution. All countries are urged to take concrete measures to enact the New York Declaration swiftly.

The recognition of Palestine by several countries, including Australia, Belgium, Canada, and others, was acknowledged at the UN General Assembly. States yet to recognise Palestine are encouraged to join this movement.

Ending hostilities in Gaza and ensuring hostage release are top priorities. A permanent ceasefire is called for, alongside prisoner exchanges and unrestricted humanitarian aid delivery throughout Gaza. The full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza is also demanded.

To secure a peaceful future for Palestinians and Israelis, there is a commitment to support an international stabilisation mission upon invitation by the Palestinian Authority. This mission would be mandated by the UN Security Council as per the New York Declaration.

Palestinian Authority Reforms

The Palestinian Authority's ongoing reforms are welcomed. These include abolishing payments to prisoners and reforming education curricula with EU oversight and Saudi support. There is also a commitment to hold democratic elections within a year after a ceasefire.

An Emergency Coalition for Palestine has been launched to provide budgetary support to the Palestinian Authority. All states and international organisations are invited to participate in this effort.

Israeli Leadership's Responsibilities

The Israeli leadership is urged to commit publicly to a Two-State solution and cease violence against Palestinians. They should halt settlement activities in occupied territories and abandon annexation plans like the E1 project.

Concrete actions taken by member states against unilateral measures threatening the Two-State solution are appreciated until Israel complies with international law.

Regional Integration Efforts

A just peace between Israelis and Palestinians based on UN resolutions is essential for regional integration as outlined in the Arab Peace Initiative. A regional security framework similar to ASEAN or OSCE could offer security guarantees for all parties involved.

Efforts on Syria-Israel and Lebanon-Israel tracks are supported with aims for comprehensive peace in accordance with international law and relevant UN resolutions.

Nations worldwide are encouraged to join this initiative ensuring peace across the Middle East through mutual recognition and full regional integration.

With inputs from SPA