Brussels, 28/11/2005 (Agence Europe) - On 25 November, the border crossing point at Rafah, between the Gaza Strip and Egypt, was opened at a ceremony which was attended by the assistance Mission of the European Union (European Union Border Assistance Mission for the Rafah Crossing Point, known as the EU BAM Rafah). Further to the political agreement of the "General Affairs" Council of 21 November on the launch of the mission (see EUROPE 9072), the Common Action of the EU was adopted by written procedure on 25 November. The duration of the operation, which will involve nearly 70 people, will be 12 months. The High Representative of the EU for Common Foreign and Security Policy, Javier Solana, commented: "The opening of Rafah is a great opportunity, it is a turning point. For the first time, Palestinians assume the responsibility to manage external borders. It is one important step towards eventual statehood" for Palestine.