Al-Zaytouna Centre: European Union statement on the Middle East Peace Process

European Union statement on the Middle East Peace Process
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alzaytou on 06/06/2012 21:15:00


The Foreign Affairs Council of the European Union released on May 14, 2012 its
conclusions on the Middle East peace process. The Council finds serious
obstacles to development of a two-state solution including a distinct escalation
in settlement construction since the end of the 2010 moratorium, in addition to
recent Israeli government efforts to legalize settlement outposts.
There is strong concern over the level of settler extremism and violence against
Palestinian civilians in the West Bank.  The Council recognized deteriorating
living conditions for Palestinians with increased home demolitions and evictions
in East Jerusalem, and deeper restrictions on those living or conducting
business in Area C.
The EU stresses that Israel must cooperate with the Palestinian Authority to
allow more access and control for the PA in Area C.  The body also calls on
Israel to honor their obligation under the Paris Protocol to ensure swift and
consistent tax revenue transfers to the PA.
The EU calls on the PA to continue pursuing reforms and to seek reconciliation
behind President Mahmoud Abbas.  The proposed Palestinian elections are seen as
a positive contribution to Palestinian state-building.
The EU calls for unconditional opening of the border crossings for humanitarian
aid, commercial goods, and people to and from Gaza.  The body strongly condemns
continuing rocket attacks from Gaza targeting civilians in southern Israel and
calls for efforts to prevent the smuggling of arms into the territory.
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Click here to download the Full Document:
European Union statement on the Middle East Peace Process   (3 pages, 94.2 KB )
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Source: Foundation for Middle East Peace  (FMEP), 14/5/2012
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