Brussels, 23/09/2003 (Agence Europe) - The Italian Presidency has made the following declaration on behalf of the European Union: "The EU reaffirms its full support for the peace process between Ethiopia and Eritrea, now arrived at the crucial phase of border demarcation. Expressing concern at delays in the demarcation process, the EU emphasises the importance of attaining an expedition implementation of the boundary commission's decision. The EU calls upon the parties to abide by the peace agreements as well as the rulings of the boudary commission and to fully comply with the UN Security Council Resolution 1507 (2003) so the ensure that the border demarcation begins as scheduled and that the necessary conditions are provided for the demarcation to proceed. The EU acknowledges that the lasting peace requires a relationship between the parties that enables them to address bilaterally any problems arising between them. It therefore calls on both governments to normalise their relationship through political dialogue, including confidence-building measures, in order to consolidate the progress made so far and ensure the success of the peace process. The EU stresses that the peace process must not be allowed to lost momentum and that only a definitive end to territorial disputes will guarantee stability and the opportunity for a renewed focus on sustainable development and poverty eradication".