President Jacob Zuma and the SA Jewish Board of Deputies on Thursday expressed support for a two-State solution in the Israel and Palestine conflict.

Zuma reiterated South Africa’s willingness to support all sides to find a solution, said presidential spokesman Mac Maharaj in a statement.

“The SAJBD also reiterated their support for the two-state policy and emphasised the willingness of the SA Jewry to support government in the quest for solutions in the Middle East,” Maharaj said.

Zuma met SAJBD president Zev Krengel in Pretoria.

Also attending the meeting was Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Maite Nkoana-Mashabane and the Ministers in the Presidency, Jeff Radebe and Susan Shabangu.

The SAJBD said it was concerned by anti-semitic statements that have been made recently in the country.

“President Zuma emphasised government’s abhorrence of anti-semitism and all forms of intolerance,” Maharaj said.

Government and the SAJBD would continue to have ongoing dialogue to promote understanding and cooperation. SAPA