We support the negotiations that were initiated as part of the process between Israel and Palestine under the auspices of the U.S. toward a two-state solution with two states living side by side in peace on the pre-1967 borders. We would strongly wish that this process concludes in a fair, comprehensive and viable final agreement that will enable the establishment of an independent and sovereign State of Palestine with East Jerusalem as its capital. In this context, confidence-building steps taken by parties such as the release of pre-Oslo prisoners are important.

On the other hand, it is imperative to carefully avoid steps that are contrary to the spirit of the peace process and that will jeopardize the continuation of the negotiations. We therefore condemn Israel's announcement of tenders on 10 January for the construction of more than 1,900 housing units in illegal settlements in East Jerusalem and the West Bank in contradiction with international law.

Such steps must end, as they are incompatible with the spirit of the process of negotiations between the parties and undermine the resolution of the conflict on the basis of a two-state peace vision.