Just hours before the Palestinians are expected to submit their bid for statehood at the United Nations, European Council President Herman Van Rompuy called on both the Palestinians and Israelis to act courageously to overcome their differences, dpa reported.
"The winds of change across the entire region should help you to get out of impasses," he told the UN General Assembly Thursday, as he urged both sides to act now to resume direct negotiations.
"The time to act is now," he urged Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. "There are political risks, but you need to take them - just like some of your predecessors did - with a view of offering a better and safer future to your communities."
The current situation in the region is not an option, he said, and pointed to success in Europe in overcoming long divisions.
"From the European experience, we can tell you: A lasting compromise is grounded on mutual sacrifice and trust."
Abbas is expected to present a letter requesting UN membership during a speech Friday. Netanyahu is expected to address the body just hours later.
The United States and others have been involved in last minute efforts to get Palestinians back to the negotiating table with Israel rather than seek statehood through the UN.