President Reuven Rivlin hosted US Ambassador to the United Nations Samantha Power today (Monday). US Ambassador to Israel Dan Shapiro and Israeli Ambassador to the UN Danny Danon were also present.
Rivlin told Power, "You are the Ambassador of the United States in the United Nations, which means you are a bridge between very decisive voices in the world, and we welcome you as one who can bridge gaps and as a real friend. I know that you are meeting the Palestinians, and I would ask to transfer once again a message to President Abbas, that he must understand the conflict between us - the tragedy between us - can only be solved through direct negotiations. No solution can be imposed on either side, and we must negotiate to come to an understanding."
Ambassador Power thanked the President and said, "I bring the greetings of President Obama, I know that you have had a very warm and productive encounters lately. During my visit I will have the opportunity to spend some time with young people, and to meet with young Israelis from around the country taking part in a Model UN conference. At a time of difficult and tragic violence in which so many Israeli and Palestinian families have suffered, I am keen to hear your thoughts about how tensions can be calm, and how we can get back on track in the hope that a solution can be negotiated."