UNITED NATIONS: The UN Secretary-General has welcomed formation of a government of national consensus comprising the Fatah and Hamas groups.

“The Secretary General takes note of the renewed assurances by President Abbas that the government will continue to abide by those commitments of recognition of Israel, non-violence and adherence to previous agreements.

The Secretary-General also notes that the Palestine Liberation Organisation will remain responsible for holding peace negotiations with the State of Israel, a commitment President Abbas has reaffirmed, and hopes that new opportunities for progress toward a two-state solution will emerge soon,” a statement said.

“The Secretary-General counts on a constructive approach by regional stakeholders and hopes the international community will not relent in its support to the development of Palestinian economy and Israeli-Palestinian peace.”

Published in Dawn, June 4th, 2014