NEW YORK — The European Union remains firmly committed to the two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, said European Council President Charles Michel.

Addressing the United Nations General Assembly on Friday, he said the EU “will spare no effort with our international partners, including the Quartet, to facilitate the return of Israelis and Palestinians to the negotiating table, to find a negotiated solution within internationally agreed parameters.’’

“In a tormented region, the issue of peace between Palestinians and Israelis remains more timely than ever. We must continue to support the legitimate aspirations of both parties,’’ Michel said.

“We must continue to support the legitimate aspirations of both parties. And we remain firmly committed to the two-state solution.”

He added that the EU also welcomes Israel’s rapprochement with countries in the region as “a positive development for peace and stability in the Middle East.’’

The EU envoy also welcomed the start of intra-Afghan negotiations and vowed the union’s support for lasting peace

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Commenting on the coronavirus crisis, Michel said that the EU is working with the World Health Organization to defeat COVID-19.

“Like the whole world, Europe has been hard hit by the pandemic. In the European Union, more than 142,000 people have lost their lives,” he said.

EU envoy also raised concerns over tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean.

“Unilateral actions and violations of international law must absolutely stop, Michel said.

He added that the EU is undertaking intensive diplomatic efforts to defuse tensions and to promote dialogue. — Agencies