Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry and United Nations’ Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Tor Wennesland have agreed to intensify contacts to avoid any escalation in Jerusalem or the Gaza Strip.
During their meeting, they discussed ways to advance the peace process and end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The Egyptian FM briefed Wennesland on Egypt’s stance and efforts to resume the Palestinian-Israeli negotiations based on the relevant international legitimacy resolutions and the international law.
Shoukry also highlighted Egypt’s efforts, along with Jordan, Germany, and France, to resume the negotiations, voicing Cairo’s concerns over an escalation in East Jerusalem.
The minister further called for putting an end to violations of the holy city’s Arab, Islamic and Christian identity.
Wennesland praised Cairo’s great efforts to resume the peace talks and achieve Palestinian reconciliation.
In a separate meeting with Wennesland, Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Abul Gheit expressed concern about the recent escalation in Jerusalem, blaming the extreme right-wing rhetoric in Israel for the worsening developments.
He also blamed the Israeli authorities who he said sought to impose new restrictions on the Palestinians in the Old City and Al-Aqsa Mosque.
Abul Gheit called for wisdom and less provocation, especially that this time of year sees the influx of tens of thousands of worshippers to the Temple Mount.
He highlighted the right of Palestinians to reach Al-Aqsa Mosque without obstacles or barriers and warned against incitement by Jewish groups.
Abul Gheit also stressed the importance of continuing international support for the Palestinian Authority at this difficult phase, especially with the serious economic and social consequences of the novel coronavirus pandemic.
