We believe that this decision undermines the trust and confidence that is so badly needed if a lasting peace is to be achieved. We know the sensitivity of the issue of Jerusalem, and it is precisely because mutual confidence is needed to deal with the permanent status questions that we would have preferred this decision not be taken. The international community has a responsibility too. We must respect the will and the commitment of the parties to move forward together along their chosen path of negotiations. We must offer our support and encouragement at every turn, just as the General Assembly has each year in its annual resolution in support of the Middle East peace process.
All parties share the goal of finding ways to advance peace.
We must do everything possible to foster a supportive environment for permanent status negotiations, which will begin later this month. We must be especially sensitive to any actual or implied interference in these negotiations. Such interference can only provoke mistrust and harden the positions of both sides, which will make further progress much more difficult. The Security Council has a special responsibility in this regard. Mr. President, I believe all of us in this chamber want the same things.