Ashton, Netanyahu
Photo: Gil Yohanan
EU backs resumption of peace talks
Union's Foreign Affairs Council issues statement on Middle East peace process, welcoming Kerry's announcement on resumption of talks, reiterating support of two-state solution, urging to address all issues, including status of Jerusalem, borders, refugees
After the European Union's ban on the settlements, the EU's Foreign Affairs Council on Monday issued a statement according to which they vow to "remain fully engaged with both parties and… contribute together with other regional and international partners, including within the Quartet,
to a negotiated solution on all final status issues, including Jerusalem, borders, security, water and refugees."
The council further stated that the EU "will give active and concrete support to help ensure negotiations between the parties are successful."
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If an agreement to finally end this conflict were reached, the door would open to deepened and enhanced cooperation between the European Union and all the countries of the region, contributing to the prospect of a new era of peace, security and prosperity," the statement added.
Kerry announces resumption of talks (צילום: רויטרס)
The statement reiterated the EU's support of the two state solution and an in ending the conflict by "fulfilling the legitimate aspirations of both parties with the state of Israel and an independent, democratic, contiguous, sovereign and viable State of Palestine, living side by side in peace and security and mutual recognition, both states enjoying normal relations with all the countries of the region."
Without directly referring to the EU's decision on the settlements, the statement recalls "previous conclusions" as exemplary to the EU's commitment "to address all issues that put the viability of the two-state solution at risk."
The council commended US Secretary of State John Kerry for his "dedication, and the personal commitment demonstrated by Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Abbas."
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