Brussels, 10/05/2000 (Agence Europe) - Following the violence of recent days, on 6 May the Portuguese Presidency adopted the following declaration on Lebanon on behalf of the EU:
"Deeply concerned at the recent evolution of the situation in Lebanon and Northern Israel, the European Union appeals to all sides to refrain from further escalation and observe the terms of the cease-fire understanding of April 1996. The EU expresses its sympathy to the injured and to bereaved families. Recalling that the intensification of hostilities will serve only those who oppose a just, lasting and comprehensive peace in the Middle East and will bring with it the unnecessary suffering of innocent people, the EU appeals to all sides to show the utmost restraint."