Jerusalem issue must be resolved through direct negotiations -- UN chief

NEW YORK, Dec 6 (KUNA) -- UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres said on Wednesday that Jerusalem is a final status issue which must be resolved through direct negotiations between both Palestinians and Israelis.
In a brief statement to reporters after US President Donald Trump had recognized Jerusalem as Israel's capital and ordered the relocation of the US Embassy to it, Guterres said the solution to Jerusalem issue should be based on the relevant Security Council and General Assembly resolutions, taking into account the legitimate concerns of the two sides.
He said that he understands the deep attachment that Jerusalem holds in the hearts of so many people. He stated that it has been so for centuries and it will always be.
"From day one as Secretary-General of the United Nations, I have consistently spoken out against any unilateral measures that would jeopardize the prospect of peace for Israelis and Palestinians," he said.
He noted that it is only by realizing the vision of two states living side-by-side in peace, security and mutual recognition, with Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and Palestine, and all final status issues resolved permanently through negotiations, that the legitimate aspirations of both peoples will be achieved.
He pledged to do everything in his power to support the Israeli and Palestinian leaders to return to meaningful negotiations and to realize this vision of a lasting peace for both people. (end) asf.hm