Singapore Calls on Israel, Palestinian Authority to Return to Direct Talks on Two-State Solution

Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan has called on Israel and the Palestinian Authority (PA) to return to direct talks on a two-state solution that offers the "only viable pathway" towards peace.

- Raul Dancel

He spoke with the PA's Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin on Sept 9, and with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Moshe Sa'ar on Sept 10, Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said in a statement on Sept 10.

In "candid and open discussions" with both ministers, Dr Balakrishnan underscored Singapore's "grave concern" over the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and called for an immediate ceasefire and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.

He reiterated Singapore's firm position that only a negotiated two-state solution, in line with United Nations Security Council resolutions, offers a "comprehensive, just and durable resolution" to the Israel-Palestine conflict.