By Alyssa McMurtry
OVIEDO, Spain (AA) - Spain and Israel voiced on Monday support for the latest Gaza cease-fire agreement, which was unveiled by US President Joe Biden last week.
The nations’ top diplomats held a joint press conference in Madrid, ahead of Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry’s meeting with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.
“We must end the hostilities that are causing such suffering for civilians and take steps toward new management of Gaza … That’s why we support the US proposal, just like we’ve supported other cease-fire proposals,” said Spanish Foreign Minister Albares.
Biden’s plan envisages three stages. The first stage proposes to involve a six-week cease-fire, followed by negotiations for a permanent end to hostilities and facilitating reconstruction of the enclave.
Albares added that “as soon as the weapons stop firing,” all of Palestine should be controlled by the Palestinian Authority.
Shoukry said Egypt is now actively working with partners such as the US, EU and Qatar to help the latest cease-fire proposal be accepted by all parties.
The Egyptian foreign minister added that any peace plan would need to include Palestinian control of the Rafah crossing that borders Egypt.
“It’s the only point of communication between Gazan and the outside world. All other crossings are closed. Gazans need health, education, and food, and this all goes through Egypt,” he said.
He said the Egypt-Israel peace treaty has many mechanisms to solve problems, but called on “all parties to take responsible measures” to ensure the “important treaty” is respected.
Before the press conference, the foreign ministers also held a private meeting where they discussed the two-state solution and boosting bilateral cooperation.
Egypt praised Spain's recent move to recognize a Palestinian state, saying the action represents a “moral attitude that fosters trust” and is “coherent with international cooperation.”
“We thank Spain for supporting coexistence between civilizations,” he said, adding: "Spain is often the spokesperson for Egypt in the EU, as it knows our issues, challenges and what we can offer very well .”
Albares thanked Egypt for its defense of peace and stability in the Middle East and for its efforts around cease-fire negotiations.