12/06/2017 (Agence Europe) – On Friday 7 June, the spokesperson for the European External Action Service criticised the decisions by the Israeli government on 6 and 7 June to advance plans for thousands of settlement units "including in locations deep inside the West Bank and expanding the existing footprint of built-up areas". These decisions "further complicate the prospects for a viable two-state solution", the spokesperson said in a press release, reiterating the illegality of the settlements under international law. "The EU calls on both sides to engage in a meaningful process in view of reaching a negotiated two-state solution", the spokesperson again urged, adding that this is the only way to fulfil the legitimate aspirations of both parties and to achieve just and lasting peace. (CG)