“The U.N. has few higher priorities than seeing this conflict resolved,” Ban said. “Above all, today marks a beginning, not an end. I know that different expectations exist. But I ask you all to approach this effort with flexibility, patience, and resolve. Let us base expectations on a realistic assessment and take responsibility for the things we each can do, without losing faith.” The Secretary General stressed the need to “reverse this growing sense of despair” among Palestinians that their dream of statehood may never become a reality. “The [peace] process must end the occupation and create an independent and viable state of Palestine, at peace with itself and its neighbors,” he said. Ban added that “Israel faces genuine security challenges,” with a renewed threat of attack and some questioning its right to exist. “We must reverse this loss of faith, and build a process that delivers on the vital interests of Israelis: a Palestinian state that is a true partner, secure and recognized borders, and a permanent end to the conflict,” he said.--MORE www.spa.gov.sa/503985