Vietnam welcomes the support by concerned parties for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East region, based on the vision of two independent States , Israel and Palestine , living side by side in peace within secure and recognised borders.

At an open debate of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on the situation in the Middle East , Ambassador Bui The Giang, Vietnamese deputy representative to the UNSC, said he welcomes the continued determination of the Quartet, regional countries, and the international community to re-generate a climate of trust in the region.

Ambassador Giang also hailed the reaffirmed support by all 57 Arab States of the Arab Peace Initiative and the continued efforts of the Palestinian Authority to strengthen national reconciliation and self-empowerment in preparation for next year’s elections and future statehood.

He spoke highly of the mediation efforts made by other parties in the region, particularly the one under Egypt’s sponsorship, as well as the Obama Administration’s new efforts to help accelerate the regional peace process, adding that he looks forward to a productive discussion at a conference on the Midwest, due to be held in Moscow in the near future.

However, the diplomat expressed his concern over outbreaks of violence, rocket attacks and the continued Israeli imposition of restrictions and blockades, which have brought damage to the very fabric of the civilian population in Gaza .

“We call on the parties involved to uphold their determination to resolve the conflict through political negotiations and refrain from any action that may prejudge the outcome of negotiations or erode confidence,” Giang said.

He urged Israel to halt the construction of the separation wall and the settlement activities, immediately lift all restrictive measures, and ensure humanitarian access. In addition, he encouraged all Palestinian parties to embark on reconciliation efforts aimed at a national unity Government.

He also called on all parties concerned to scrupulously abide by international humanitarian and human rights laws and extend the necessary cooperation to humanitarian relief operations with a view to rebuilding Gaza and moving forward on the path of peace.

Regarding Lebanon , Ambassador Giang said he remains irritated by Israel ’s continued and frequent violations of Lebanese airspace and he asked that such violations stop unconditionally.

He congratulated the people of Lebanon on their peaceful parliamentary elections on June 7 and said he looked forward to the prompt formation of a new government which would contribute to the consolidation and promotion of the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon .

He also called upon all parties in Lebanon to build on the momentum provided by previous dialogues and cooperation to move the country into a new stage of reconciliation, reconstruction and integration in the best interests of the Lebanese people./.