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UN Chief says two-state solution only way

DEAD SEA, Jordan, March 29 (KUNA) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Wednesday that the two-state solution was "the only solution" that would guarantee security and peace and a decent life for peoples of the region.
In a speech, at the 28th Arab summit in Jordan, Guterres stressed the need to stop any unilateral steps toward a two-state solution, expressing his understanding of the despaired Palestinian people.
Guterres highlighted latest developments in the Arab region and specifically mentioned Iraq's question, expressing his welcome for the progress made in restoring territories from that the so-called Islamic state (IS) organization.
On Syria, the UN chief has welcomed any coalitions that seek to preserve, maintain peace, restore stability and development to the troubled nation, stressing that it is time to end the conflict in Syria and that the Geneva negotiations must lead to tangible results.
Guterres has also pointed to new realities the world is witnessing due to terrorism; stressing that Muslims themselves are victims of these terrorist acts.
The UN chief addressed as well the refugee crisis, expressing personal distress that refugees and immigrants have been barred from reaching some developed countries.
The Secretary-General expressed hope for a new future for the region in order to solve its problems through dialogue and expressed his aspiration to strengthen cooperation with the Arab League.
Meanwhile, in the following speech at the opening session, Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed AbulGheit affirmed League's ability to be "a joint and fruitful leader" for making Arab achievements.
AbulGheit added that he was confident in the ability of Arab peoples to overpass this dangerous chapter in their modern history, "who are now stronger, more determined, and more united than ever." AbulGheit also highlighted the most important issues in the Arab world, Arab joint action, and challenges, including the importance of Arab consensus to support the League and its work and the ability to be the bridge among the Arab countries.
He also warned of employing sectarianism in a way to achieve political gains contrary to Arab interest, which they will confront and address.
The Arab League chief stressed the importance of preserving the national state, indicating that the current Arab situation is not yet qualified to enter into any long-term arrangements for regional security in the light of the imbalance of power.
AbulGheit also said "Israel is still determined to occupy Palestinian lands, and continues carelessly with settlement construction and Judaization.
He called on Arab leaders to continue their support to various humanitarian situations which affected unarmed civilians in crisis areas and to combat terrorism. (pickup previous) amm.mjb.mb.rk