TAOISEACH Simon Harris has confirmed Ireland’s commitment to a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The Irish leader is due to meet with President of the Palestinian Authority Mahmoud Abbas today.
It is their first in-person meeting since Ireland recognised the State of Palestine in May this year and it comes against the backdrop of an ongoing human catastrophe in Gaza and growing attacks in the West Bank.
Speaking ahead of the meet, Mr Harris said: “Ireland recognised the State of Palestine to help keep alive the hope of a two-state solution with Palestine and Israel living peacefully side-by-side.
“Today I will be asking President Abbas how we can support him and the Palestinian Authority in making that hope a reality.
“Ireland knows how important it is for a country to take its place on the global stage.”
Also today, following the official opening of the United Nations General Assembly, the Taoiseach will hold bilateral meetings with King Abdullah of Jordan and the Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres.
Mr Harris is in New York attending the United Nations General Assembly High Level week.
Yesterday he delivered the opening remarks at a Save the Children event on ‘Shattered Futures in the Occupied Palestinian Territory – Children’s Perspectives’.
“There is no safe space for children in Gaza,” he sid.
“Ending the violence in Gaza and efforts towards implementation of the two-State solution are a central priority for Ireland,” he added.