Brussels, 28/04/2014 (Agence Europe) - “Extremely concerned” at recent developments in the Middle East - the intra-Palestinian reconciliation agreement (see EUROPE 11066) and the announcement by Israel that it is suspending the peace negotiations (see EUROPE 11067) - which are “putting into question the continued negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians beyond the original deadline of 29 April 2014”, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton called on the Israelis and Palestinians on 27 April “to remain focused on negotiations and on the unprecedented benefits which peace can bring”. “Negotiations are the best way forward. The extensive efforts deployed in recent months must not go to waste”, she added in a press release. Ashton again called on the parties to “exercise maximum restraint” and to avoid any action which may further undermine the peace efforts and viability of a two-state solution.
Returning to the intra-Palestinian reconciliation, Ashton reiterated that the EU has always supported this reconciliation “but on clear and certain terms”. Reconciliation must “take place behind President [of Palestine Mahmoud] Abbas in line with the principles set out in his speech of 4 May 2011”. In Ashton's view, the fact that Abbas remains fully in charge of the negotiation process and has a mandate to negotiate in the name of all Palestinians provides “further assurance that the peace negotiations can and must proceed”.
“The EU expects any new government to uphold the principle of non-violence, to remain committed to achieving a two state solution and to a negotiated peaceful settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, accepting previous agreements and obligations, including Israel's legitimate right to exist”, Ashton stated. In her opinion, reconciliation on these terms is an important element for the unity of a future Palestinian state and for reaching a two-state solution and lasting peace. The EU welcomes the prospect of genuine democratic elections for all Palestinians, Ashton added. (CG)