Annan´s final words on mideast conflict

Source: CCTV.com | 12-13-2006 19:29

Outgoing UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan has given his last speech on the Middle East to the UN Security Council. He has rebuked General Assembly members as well as leading international players for failing to come to grips with the escalating Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

In his last address on the Middle East to the UN Security Council, Annan said a settlement had defied several generations of world leaders.

UN secretary-General Kofi Annan said, "One of the most frustrating aspects of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is the apparent inability of many people on both sides to understand the position of the other and the unwillingness of some even to try."

Annan chastised Palestinian supporters for their criticism of Security Council actions. He said Palestinians have suffered for decades with military occupation by Israel. And now the Palestinian Authority, paralyzed by a debilitating political and financial crisis, is no longer able to provide security or basic services.

Annan said, "The situation, the people, the thirst for peace, are all very close to my heart. I know they are close to yours as well. As a matter of urgency, let us match that concern with concerted action."

Annan will end 10 years as the UN Secretary-General the end of this month. He will be succeeded by South Korean Foreign Minister Ban Ki-moon.

Editor:Ji Xuewen