The United States decided it had a responsibility to play a direct role in seeking a solution. Thus, we accepted a suggestion put forward both by the French Government and the Secretary-General of the United Nations. We also decided to consult directly with the Soviet Union, hoping to achieve as wide an area of agreement as possible between us. These decisions were made in full recognition of the following important factors. First, we knew that nations not directly involved could not make a durable peace for the peoples and Governments involved.
Peace rests with the parties to the conflict.
Second, we knew that a durable peace must meet the legitimate concerns of both sides. Third, we were clear that the only framework for a negotiated settlement was one in accordance with the entire text of the UN Security Council Resolution. Fourth, we believed that a protracted period of war, no peace, recurrent violence and spreading chaos would serve the interests of no nation, in or out of the Middle East. For eight months we have pursued these consultations, in Four Power talks at the United Nations, and in bilateral discussions with the Soviet Union. In our talks with the Soviets, we have proceeded in the belief that the stakes are so high that we have a responsibility to determine whether we can achieve parallel views which would encourage the parties to work out a stable and equitable solution.