FOREIGN AND
COMMONWEALTH OFFICE News Release issued by COI News Distribution
Service. 3 January 2009
" Unfolding
events show the urgent need for the immediate ceasefire that we
have called for. The escalation of the conflict will cause alarm
and dismay. Intensive diplomatic efforts to find a solution
continue. The EU troika will visit the region tomorrow, as will
President Sarkozy. The Prime Minister and I remain in very close
contact with our EU, US and Middle Eastern colleagues. We are
determined to work as quickly as possible for a durable ceasefire
which must include an end to the smuggling of arms into Gaza and
the opening of the Gaza crossings. The UK believes that the
crisis in the Middle East matters to the whole world. The only
sustainable basis for delivering security and justice for Israelis
and Palestinians, is the vision of two states living in peace side
by side, supported by the rest of the region. "
Website: http://www.fco.gov.uk/news
Press Office, Downing Street (West), London SW1A 2AL