Riyadh Hosts Arab-European Coordination Meeting To Support Two-State Solution And Palestinian State Recognition

Riyadh: A high-level coordination meeting between Arab and European countries was convened in Riyadh on Monday with the aim of bolstering efforts towards implementing the two-state solution and recognizing the State of Palestine. Co-chaired by Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide, the meeting was organized jointly by Saudi Arabia and Norway.

During the meeting, Prince Faisal welcomed the ministers from participating countries and emphasized the importance of exchanging views and consultations to take tangible steps in supporting the cessation of hostilities in Gaza. The focus remains on activating the political track and fostering the two-state solution, including the long-overdue recognition of the Palestinian state.

Expressing deep concern, Prince Faisal denounced the recent discoveries of mass graves in Nasser Medical City, deeming them horrific and reflecting a complete disregard for humanitarian standards. He also raised a warning against the potential invasion of Rafah, emphasizing that it would undoubtedly lead to a humanitarian catastrophe, severe consequences for Palestinians and neighboring countries, and grave repercussions for all parties involved.

The foreign minister reiterated the commitment to a comprehensive approach in seeking a final resolution to the regional conflict. He emphasized the undeniable right of the Palestinian people to self-determination through the recognition of their state, highlighting that this urgent measure paves the way for a reliable and irreversible path towards the implementation of the two-state solution.

Prince Faisal commended European countries that have expressed their intention to recognize the State of Palestine, emphasizing that such steps are critical in advancing the establishment of a Palestinian state and fostering security and stability across the region.

The coordination meeting witnessed the participation of several foreign ministers and representatives from Algeria, Bahrain, Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Palestine, Belgium, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Slovenia, Turkey, and the United Kingdom, in addition to the European Union and the Arab League.