Nigeria restates two-state position as solution to Gaza crisis

Nigeria has reiterated its stance on the two-state solution to the crisis between the Palestinians and Israel.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, said this while briefing State House Correspondents at the end of bilateral talks with U.S. Secretary of State, Anthony Bliken, on Tuesday in Abuja.

He said Nigeria would, however, continue to stand on issues of common interest with development partners in resolving the crisis in the Middle-East states.

“So, one thing we have in common, a common denominator, between the US and Nigeria, it’s the fact that we both agree that the way forward is a two-state solution. I think that’s what helps. Having said that, of course, each country behaves with regards to its foreign policy with the influence of domestic politics and domestic influences.

“So, it’s not surprising that Nigeria, of course, has been very expressive. They feel proportionality of violence, this linear approach in Gaza. This is why I was part of a seven-member committee of foreign ministers that pointed out to world capitals, calling for cessation of fire. So, that remains with focus on the commonalities, not on the differences,” he said.

Responding, Mr Bliken said the U.S would continue to move for strategies toward a lasting solution to the crisis, adding that measures must be taken to have lasting peace.

Mr Bliken visited Nigeria on an African nations tour to strengthen bilateral relations with focus on security, economy and humanitarian concerns.

Mr Bliken said: “With regards to Gaza, very clear, our opposition to of course displacements of people. Whether there needs to be and it’s appropriate to have transitional arrangements, as Israel reduces the intensity of its military operations. And ultimately raised them to a conclusion in order to have assurance of security, to make sure that October 7 never happens again.”

(NAN)