EU High Representative Ashton statement on the closure of two Palestinian television stations – EU Press release/Non-UN document

Statement by the Spokesperson of the High Representative Catherine Ashton
 on the closure of two Palestinian television stations

The spokesperson of Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the Commission, issued the following statement today:

The High Representative is deeply concerned by the incursion into Ramallah by Israeli security forces to seize equipment from the Palestinian television stations, Wattan TV and Al Quds Educational TV.

Incursions by Israeli forces into Palestinian cities where the Palestinian Authority, under the Oslo Accords, assumes the powers and responsibilities for internal security and public order is a breach of those accords and puts in jeopardy the internationally recognized success of Palestinian institution building efforts. The European Union has worked with both stations, which have been broadcasting for many years.

The Oslo Accords established an Israeli-Palestinian Joint Technical Committee to address any issues arising in the telecommunications field. The High Representative calls on Israel and the Palestinian Authority to use this mechanism to urgently resolve any issues concerning broadcasts by these companies.

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P R E S S

FOR FURTHER DETAILS:

Michael Mann +32 498 999 780 – +32 2 299 97 80 – Michael.Mann@eeas.europa.eu

Maja Kocijancic +32 498 984 425 – +32 2 298 65 70 – Maja.Kocijancic@ec.europa.eu

Sebastien Brabant +32 498 986 433 – Sebastien.Brabant@ec.europa.eu

COMM-SPP-HRVP-ASHTON@ec.europa.eu

www.eeas.europa.eu