Brussels, 20 January 2012
BACKGROUND1
FOREIGN AFFAIRS COUNCIL
23 January 2012 in Brussels
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1This note has been drawn up under the responsibility of the press office
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Middle East Peace Process
The Council will discuss the latest developments concerning the Middle East Peace Process, in particular following the exploratory meetings of Israeli and Palestinian negotiators on 3 and 9 January in Amman.
The Council is expected to welcome Jordan's efforts to facilitate direct talks between the Israelis and the Palestinians as part of the Quartet process. At the same time, it will remind that a bold demonstration of political leadership is needed on both sides to ensure real progress. The Council is due to adopt conclusions.
On 3 January, High Representative Catherine Ashton expressed her appreciation for the facilitation of the talks by Jordan. The meetings come in the wake of a statement by the Middle East Quartet on 23 September 2011. It urged both parties to resume direct bilateral negotiations without delay or preconditions and to refrain from provocative actions. It also proposed comprehensive proposals on territory and security within three months.
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Other items
-EU Special representative for the Middle East Peace Process
The Council is expected to appoint Mr Andreas Reinicke as EU Special Representative to the Middle East Peace Process for the period from 1 February 2012 to 1 June 2013.
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Document Sources: European Union (EU)
Subject: Peace process, Peace proposals and efforts, Quartet
Publication Date: 20/01/2012