SITUATION IN THE MIDDLE EAST - 6 DECEMBER 2001

In the light of the progressive deterioration in the situation in the Middle East, as evidenced by the revolting acts of terrorism perpetrated against innocent civilians followed by retaliatory attacks carried out over the past few days, the Maltese Government expresses its profound preoccupation on the future of the region and on the effect on the international situation in general. The Maltese Government firmly believes that no effort should be spared by the international community to convince both sides to desist from acts that would further escalate the crisis, to do everything in their power to defuse the prevailing explosive situation, and to engage in a period of reflection. The Maltese Government affirms that the continued resort to violent means will only serve to rapidly undo the progress painstakingly achieved over the past years. This would certainly be detrimental to the security of both sides, which can only be assured through the peaceful co-existence of a Palestinian state alongside its neighbour Israel, to the security of the region as a whole, and to international stability.