Statement by Secretary Clinton on Developments in the Middle East

Well, of course, D.C. might have been in shut down from the snow, but that did not stop the Secretary of State from working today. Aside from an afternoon meeting at the White House (where she learned of her husband's hospitalization), she had a phone conference with Tony Blair and released this statement.

Statement by Secretary Clinton on Developments in the Middle East



Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
February 11, 2010

I spoke today with Quartet Representative Blair to discuss developments in the Middle East.

This Administration has, from the beginning, worked to bring about comprehensive peace in the Middle East, including a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. On that issue our approach has been three-fold: (1) to help build the economy and capacity to govern of a Palestinian state; (2) to renew political negotiations to enable the earliest possible establishment of that state; and (3) to achieve these in a manner that ensures the security of Israel and of the Palestinians.

Consistent with Prime Minister Fayyad’s plan for a future Palestinian state, Tony Blair, as the Quartet representative, will intensify his partnership with Senator Mitchell in support of the political negotiations. In his role as Quartet Representative Tony Blair will continue, with full support by and coordination with Senator Mitchell, to mobilize the efforts of the international community: (1) to build support for the institutional capacity and governance of a future Palestinian State, including on the rule of law; (2) to improve freedom of movement and access for Palestinians; (3) to encourage further private sector investment; and (4) to bring change in the living conditions of the people in Gaza.