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Across Gaza, people are living through hell on Earth.

Tens of thousands of people have died.

Hundreds of thousands are starving.

Almost everyone in the Strip has been displaced multiple times.

The people of Gaza have nowhere left to go.

And For 717 days, the hostages have been yearning for their release from Hamas.

Colleagues,

The horrendous terrorist attacks of October 7th, 2023 – and the most brutal war that followed – have made it very clear:

This decades-old conflict cannot be solved by terror, destruction and death.

It can neither be won nor managed.

It needs to be resolved.

We are well aware that today a two-state-solution appears more distant than ever.

We are well aware that steps are being taken as we speak to bring it further out of reach.

We are meeting today because we are convinced:

There can be a better future.

An independent, democratic and viable Palestinian state, existing side by side, and in peace and security with Israel.

A negotiated two-state solution in accordance with international law - one to which no convincing alternative has been presented so far.

Colleagues,

to bring that future closer, Germany is guided by three principles:

First, we do not and will not recognize any changes to the 1967 borders, unless agreed upon by both parties.

Second: We consider Israeli settlements in the occupied territories unlawful and a serious obstacle to peace.

And third: We respect the ICJ’s Advisory Opinion of 19th July 2024 and act in line with its stipulations.

My country will always be deeply committed to Israel’s existence – which is still being questioned by some.

My country will always be committed to Israel’s long-term security.

Colleagues,

My country is looking forward to recognizing Palestine towards the end of a negotiated process that leads us to a two-state solution.

Because a Palestinian state needs to not just be declared. It needs to be built.

That is why we contribute every single day, in cash and in kind, to building the foundations of the future Palestinian state.

Thank you.