Finnish Foreign Minister Reiterates Support for Two-State Solution Amid Ongoing Tensions
In a significant diplomatic outreach, Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen reaffirmed her country’s commitment to fostering stability in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. Her remarks came after a meeting with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar in Jerusalem, where the two discussed various aspects of their nations’ long-standing relationship, deeply rooted in decades of exchanges spanning from top officials to everyday citizens.
In a post shared on social media platform X, Valtonen articulated, “We engaged in a productive dialogue about our bilateral relations, as well as pressing issues concerning regional security.” She underscored the urgent humanitarian needs faced by civilians in Gaza, emphasizing the critical importance of allowing unrestricted access to humanitarian aid.
“I reaffirmed Finland’s support for regional stability and securing a path towards a two-state solution,” she stated, capturing the essence of Finland’s diplomatic stance.
This meeting comes at a time of heightened tensions, as reported by various news outlets, which noted that at least 11 individuals lost their lives in Israeli airstrikes in Gaza over the weekend. Valtonen is expected to continue her visit to both Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories on Monday, aiming to strengthen Finland’s diplomatic ties and advance peace efforts.
In her press release, Valtonen highlighted Finland’s longstanding policy aimed at achieving a sustainable and peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. “The discussions taking place in Israel and the occupied territories are vital not only for our bilateral dialogue with both Israel and the Palestinian Authority but also for the overarching goal of a two-state solution.”
Her itinerary includes meetings with notable figures, such as Israeli President Isaac Herzog in Jerusalem and Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa in Ramallah. Additionally, Valtonen is set to engage with members of Palestinian civil society and visit Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center, as part of her mission to promote dialogue and understanding in this fraught region.