Two-state solution only path to Gaza conflict resolution: EU

The European Union (EU) has firmly endorsed the two-state solution as the only viable path to resolving the Gaza conflict, as top EU leaders voiced support during a UN-led peace conference co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia.

The UN resumed the High-Level International Conference for the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution on Monday. The Conference reaffirmed international commitments to the two-state solution and sought to mobilize support for its implementation.

President of the European Council Antonio Costa delivered a strong message of urgency and clarity. He said that Gaza was facing a humanitarian catastrophe, with families torn apart and famine being used as a weapon of war, adding that the disaster must come to an end.

"The European Union once again calls for an immediate ceasefire, unfettered humanitarian access and an end to insecurity. We want the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. We condemn the military offensive underway in Gaza. We also firmly condemn the violent escalation in the West Bank. We call on Israel to put an end to therefore mentioned operations, to stop the illegal settlements. Today, thanks to the impetus provided by this conference, the State of Palestine has been recognized by the majority of EU member states," said Costa.

He stressed that the two-state solution is the only way forward.

President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen followed with a reaffirmation of the EU's long-standing position.

"When the night is darkest, we must hold fast to our compass and our compass is the two-state solution. October 7 has opened one of the darkest chapters in history. We all agree that the tragedy in Gaza must stop right now and all hostages released. But ending the war might not be enough if there is no pathway to peace, if the prospect of two-state is no longer viable," she said.

Two-state solution only path to Gaza conflict resolution: EU

Two-state solution only path to Gaza conflict resolution: EU

Li Hongzhong, vice chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, met with a delegation from the Social Democratic Party (PSD) of Portugal led by Hugo Soares, the secretary-general and the parliamentary leader of the party, in Beijing on Friday.

Li, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, said that under the strategic guidance of the leaders of the two countries, the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Portugal has been continuously deepened.

China is ready to strengthen exchanges between political parties and legislative bodies of the two countries, promote cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative, and contribute to the sound and steady development of China-Portugal and China-EU relations, he said.

Li also briefed the delegation on the fourth plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee.

Soares said that Portugal firmly adheres to the one-China principle and is willing to promote exchanges and cooperation in various fields between the two countries through inter-party channels.

Senior Chinese legislator meets Portugal's PSD delegation