Merkel reiterates commitment to two-state solution

BERLIN, March 24 (KUNA) -- German Chancellor Angela Merkel reaffirmed on Friday Germany's commitment to the two-state solution as the best way out of the Middle East conflict.
Speaking at a joint press conference with visiting Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas, Merkel said her country still views that a Palestinian state living side by side with Israel is the optimal solution to the Middle East conflict.
She added that the two-state solution could effectively ensure the right of Palestinians and Israelis to living together in peace and security.
However, the German chancellor emphasized that the Middle East peace process requires a positive dynamic to put the two-state solution in place and to find a mechanism for direct peace talks.
On his part, the Palestinian leader echoed Merkel's views that the two-state approach is the key to comprehensive peace, while calling on Israel to put an end to settlement activities on occupied Palestinian territories.
"Israel's settlement policy undermines the two-state solution," Abbas said during the joint press conference with Merkel.
The Palestinian leader arrived in Berlin earlier on Thursday for talks with the German chancellor on the Middle East conflict.
Abbas wants Berlin to act as a mediator in the peace efforts because of Germany's good relations with both the Palestinians and the Israelis.
During his stay here, Abbas is also due to meet German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel. (end) anj.mt