UN General Assembly President Dennis Francis declared Friday that the upcoming high-level international conference on the peaceful settlement of the Palestinian issue presents a "critical opportunity to chart an irreversible path toward implementing the two-state solution." The remarks came during preparatory meetings for the conference scheduled for June 17-20 at UN Headquarters.

Key Statements:

• Francis' Warning:
  "This conflict cannot be resolved through perpetual war, endless occupation, or annexation. It will only end when both peoples live side-by-side in independent, sovereign states with peace, security and dignity."

• Historical Context:
  Noted 70 years since the UN first endorsed the two-state solution, reaffirmed through numerous resolutions

• Call to Action:
  "We now bear collective responsibility to act decisively, implement these resolutions, uphold international law, and respect the UN Charter's principles."

Saudi Arabia's Position:

Manal Radwan, Head of Saudi Arabia's Negotiation Team:

• Urged "concrete, irreversible action" to end the conflict

• Stated the conference must mark "the beginning of the end" through:
  ✔ Measurable commitments
  ✔ Timed implementation plans
  ✔ Recognition of Palestinian statehood as "strategic necessity"

• Rejected symbolic gestures: "This is about action, not words"

Conference Objectives:

1. Build on existing national/regional initiatives

2. Adopt concrete measures to:

   • Strengthen international law compliance

   • Advance just, comprehensive peace

   • Ensure regional security integration

Participant Profile:

• Co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France

• Expected attendance by 60+ foreign ministers