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Opponents of peace must not be allowed to derail the Middle East negotiations, EU High Representative Catherine Ashton has said, on the occasion of the launch of direct talks between Israel and the Palestinian Authority today.

 

Congratulating Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Abbas “for their vision and political courage”, she said in a statment: “The terrible terrorist act that killed four Israeli citizens near Hebron, which I have strongly condemned, shows that there are forces in the region which are determined to undermine the peace process. We must not allow them to succeed. Supporters of peace must persevere through difficult times.”

 

Catherine Ashton said it was very important that all parties avoided provocative actions which could undermine the success of the talks, adding: “This attack underlines, above all, the urgency of a two-state solution with the State of Israel and an independent, democratic, contiguous and viable State of Palestine, living side by side in peace and security with each other and their neighbours.”

 

The High Representative said the EU would continue to support the direct negotiations to ensure their success. “The negotiations should focus on all final status issues. I look forward to the accomplishment of the negotiations within one year, as stated in the latest Quartet statement.” (ENPI Info Centre)

 

Catherine Ashton statement

 

ENPI Info Centre – EP President welcomes resumption of direct talks between Israelis and Palestinians

 

ENPI Info Centre – Ashton condemns deadly West Bank attack