25th of this month a new development emerged when the Chairman of the Executive Committee of the PI.0 signed a document accepting United Nations wsofU- tions relevant to the Palestinian question. Indeed. this marked a new turn in the long-standing posit ion of the PLO towards Israel, a step that should be received with encouragement and support. 38. In the light of this positive initiative by Chairman Arafat, the simultaneous mutual recognition of the rights of both Israel and the Palestinian shoufd be energetically promoted. Such a step should be en- hanced by a parallel direct dialogue to be initiated between the United States and the Palestinians. 39. Both elements-mutual recognition between the two parties and Israel’s recognition of the right of the Palestinians to self-determination-must be &a11 with as an integral package deal. Thus, both elements should be implemented simultaneously. 40. The French-Egyptian initiative presents u set of internationally recognized principles asi a g:r-uund basis for establishing a-just., lasting and com;prehcnsive peace in the Middle East. It offers a starting-paint to open wide avenues for further consultations and con- 4 tacts between all parties concerned, with a view to achieving peace in the Middle East. 41, The joint draft resolution contained in docu- ment S/ 153 17, which I also have the privilege to intro- duce to the Council, was initiated jointly by the Gov- ernments of Egypt and France. This draft resolution deals substantially with the three main elements that could well serve as a foundation for putting an end to the appalling situation in Lebanon as well as in the Middle East as a whole. 42. Under its preambular paragraph, the draft reso- lution, guided by the purposes and principles of the Charter, reaffirms the validity of Council resolutions 242 (1967) and 338 (1973) as regards a lasting and 
**Analysis**
This text appears to be discussing a political development related to the Middle East peace process, specifically the Palestinian question and the role of the United Nations, France, and Egypt in promoting a just and lasting peace. The language used is formal and diplomatic, suggesting a document from an international organization or a high-level meeting. The text does not mention economic, environmental, or scientific issues, but rather focuses on political and humanitarian aspects.

**Category**
International relations, Humanitarian aid and relief