UN General Assembly
2011

a clear sign of our solidarity. The Syrian Government has responded to the legitimate demands of the Syrian people with brutal force. Germany will continue to press for a Security Council resolution. This is not only about showing solidarity with the Syrian people; it is also about the credibility of the international community. If the repression continues, we Europeans will further tighten sanctions against the regime. The Syrian people should be free to shape their own future. This week has been dominated by the unresolved conflict in the Middle East. On Friday here in New York, President Abbas expressed the Palestinians’ expectations and understandable frustration with the lack of progress made (see ). On the same day, Prime Minister Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s justified desire to exist in peace within secure borders (see ). Both sides have legitimate interests. However, these interests are certainly not irreconcilable. They can be overcome if the parties involved are willing to do so. Germany is backing a two-State solution. We support a Palestinian State that will allow the Palestinians to live in dignity and self-determination