Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I do not disagree with what Deputy Crowe said but I emphasise that my whole approach will be guided by a concern to ensure that the actions of Ireland will make a positive contribution to the achievement of a Palestinian state. We continue to stress, as successive Government have for some time, that a two-state solution is the only solution for the region that will bring about stability and peace. I emphasised this point in the context of our meeting with President Abbas. Our discussions were focused entirely on issues affecting the peace process. These included the settlements, the situation in Gaza, the possible role for the European Union in ensuring efforts to further internationalise the issue, including through the United Nations Security Council, and efforts to encourage further recognition for the Palestinian state.

It is clear there are very real and serious issues here, which I saw on the ground in Gaza where the situation was unacceptable. There was acknowledgement on the part of President Abbas and others of the Irish contribution towards the relief of the unacceptable humanitarian crisis there. I am closely monitoring the situation to ensure Ireland continues to play a positive and active role in this regard.

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