Statement Congratulating
Palestinian Authority On Election
(February 3, 2006)
“The
Security Council congratulates the Palestinian
people on an electoral process that was free,
fair, and secure. It commends all the
parties for the preparation and conduct of
the elections, particularly the Central Elections
Commission and the Palestinian Authority
security forces, for their professionalism.
“The
Security Council expresses its expectation
that a new Government remain committed to
realizing the aspirations of the Palestinian
people for peace and statehood. The
Security Council welcomes President Abbas’ affirmation
that the Palestinian Authority remains committed
to the Road Map, previous agreements and
obligations between the parties, and a negotiated
two-State solution to the Israeli-Palestinian
conflict. The Security Council expresses
its view that all members of a future Palestinian
Government must be committed to the aforementioned
instruments and principles.
“Cognizant
of the humanitarian needs of the Palestinian
people, the Security Council reaffirms its
continuing interest in the fiscal stability
of the caretaker Government, consistent with
clear reform and austerity benchmarks. The
Security Council notes that major donors
have indicated they will review future assistance
to a new Palestinian Authority Government
against that Government’s commitment
to the principles of non-violence, recognition
of Israel, and acceptance of previous agreements
and obligations, including the Road Map.
“The
Security Council reminds both parties of
their obligation under the Road Map and on
existing agreements, including on movement
and access. It calls on both parties
to avoid unilateral actions which prejudice
final status issues. The Security Council
underlines the need for the Palestinian Authority
to prevent terrorist attacks and dismantle
the infrastructure of terror. It reiterates
its view that settlement expansion must stop
and its concern regarding the route of the
barrier.
“The
Security Council reaffirms its profound attachment
to the vision of two democratic States, Israel
and Palestine, living side by side in peace
and security. The Security Council
reiterates the importance of, and the need
to achieve, a just, comprehensive, and lasting
peace in the Middle East, based on all its
relevant resolutions including its resolutions
242 (1967), 338 (1973), 1397 (2002), and
1515 (2003), the Madrid terms of reference
and the principle of land for peace.”
Sources: United Nations Security Council |