29/12/2005 (Agence Europe) - In a declaration of 28 December, the Quartet for the peace process in the Middle East (the European Union, the UN, the United States and Russia) welcomes the prospect of the elections of the Palestinian legislative Council planned for 25 January 2006, whilst calling on the Palestinian Authority and the central electoral committee to ensure that the ballot takes place in a climate of safety and security (it is worth noting that the observation mission of the EU is led by MEP Véronique de Keyser). The declaration calls, in particular, for the prevention of terrorist attacks and to dismantle "the structures of terrorism". Reiterating its declaration of 20 September (EUROPE 9032), the Quartet states that it is encouraged by the negotiation of a code of conduct for the elections. Furthermore, the declaration stresses the need for the future Cabinet of the Palestinian Authority not to include any members who have not committed to the principles of Israel's right to exist in peace and security and for the end of violence and terrorism. Lastly, the Quartet calls for the immediate opening of direct dialogue between the Israeli government and the Palestinian Authority in order to coordinate preparations for these elections, and, more importantly, for the implementation of a mechanism allowing the Palestinians residing in Jerusalem to carry out their democratic rights.