Business Standard

Merkel affirms German backing for two-state solution

Image

AP Berlin
Chancellor Angela Merkel is reiterating Germany's long-held support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and its rejection of Israeli settlements.

Speaking ahead of talks in Berlin with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas today, Merkel said "I see now, as in the past, no reasonable alternative than the goal of a two state-solution."

The possibility of a two-state solution seemed to have been weakened by US President Donald Trump's statement in February that he could accept a single state, though he's also left the door open to two states.

He's also urged restraint on Israeli settlement construction. Merkel says the settlements are leading to an "erosion of the two-state solution."
 

The chancellor also warned that if Palestinians want peace, they should not "unilaterally denounce" Israel in international forums.

Disclaimer: No Business Standard Journalist was involved in creation of this content

Don't miss the most important news and views of the day. Get them on our Telegram channel

First Published: Mar 24 2017 | 7:22 PM IST

Explore News