Minister Fajon: A two-state solution is the only way to achieve peace in the Middle East

28. 7. 2025

Speaking at the UN high-level conference on the peaceful resolution of the Palestinian question and the implementation of the two-state solution at the UN headquarters in New York, Tanja Fajon, Slovenia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, emphasised the need for immediate action. “The only way to achieve peace in the Middle East is to implement the two-state solution: Israel and Palestine.”

Minister Fajon addressing the conference participants on the implementation of a two-state solution. | Author MZEZ

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Slovenia recognised Palestine on 4 June 2024. Over the last year, nine other countries have done the same. Of the 193 United Nations member states, 146 have now recognised Palestine. Minister Tanja Fajon is optimistic about France's intention to recognise Palestine: “Other countries must follow suit. I sincerely hope that the conference in New York will yield such results, and that we will see new recognitions of the State of Palestine in autumn. The two-state solution depends on political will and courage. There is no alternative. Only the recognition of a sovereign and independent state will ensure long-term safety and security guarantees for both Palestinians and Israelis.” According to Slovenia and Minister Fajon, the two-state solution necessarily involves empowering the Palestinian Authority and enabling negotiations regarding its future. “Slovenia does not envisage Hamas being part of the future of Palestine. We strongly condemned the Hamas attack on 7 October and all other acts of terrorism. Therefore, we believe that there is no place for Hamas in the new political architecture of Palestine,” Fajon added.

She believes that the New York conference, co-organised by France and Saudi Arabia, could be a turning point: “This conference has the potential to create the necessary momentum and open up an opportunity for a comprehensive agreement. Regardless of the outcome of the negotiations, the international community must assume its moral, political and legal responsibility.”

Minister Fajon emphasised the need to turn words into action: “We are profoundly alarmed by the devastation and immense suffering endured by civilians in Gaza. We are also concerned about the dangerous escalation in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. We strongly condemn terrorism and stand firmly behind Israel's right to security. However, we cannot stress enough the need to protect innocent lives and respect international humanitarian principles.” She added that all diplomatic channels and resources must be utilised to prevent starvation and loss of life in Gaza. “Our words and discussions bring no relief. People need help; they need change. They need immediate steps towards peace.”