English transcript

This is a historic opportunity, we understand we're working against decades of history and complexities that have led us to this unique moment.

And the opportunity here, I know some of you were shouting questions about ceasefires, this is a lot more than just about that.

This is about bringing a permanent end to 20 or 30 years of Hezbollah's influence in this part of the world.

And not just the damage it's inflicted on Israel, the damage it's inflicted on the Lebanese people.

That is the hope here today, that is what we are beginning to work.

We are joined by excellent people who will be in a position to obviously take this back to their respective capitals.

This is a process, not an event. This is more than just one day, this will take time.

But we believe it is worth this endeavor and it's a historic gathering that we hope to build on.

And the hope today is that we can outline the framework upon which a permanent and lasting peace can be developed.

So that as I said, the people of Israel can live in peace and the people of Lebanon can live not just in peace but the prosperity and security that they deserve.

Thank you.