GS 2 – INTERNATIONAL RELATION
Context
- Finland announced it would sign the French-Saudi declaration supporting a two-state solution to the Israel–Palestine conflict.
- However, Finland has not yet decided on the timing of recognising Palestinian statehood.
Key Highlights
- Declaration Objective: To revive momentum for a two-state framework, seen as the most significant international push in years.
- Finland’s Position:
- Supports the initiative.
- Views it as critical for peace and stability in the Middle East.
- Recognition of Palestine deferred; subject to further diplomatic consensus.
- Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen: Called the step a “major international effort” to create conditions for peace.
Background
- Two-State Solution:
- Envisions Israel and Palestine as two sovereign states, living side by side in peace.
- Supported by the UN, EU, and majority of the international community.
- French-Saudi Initiative: Joint diplomatic effort to rally countries towards restarting peace talks.
Recent escalations in Gaza and West Bank have intensified global calls for a lasting resolution.