Joint EU statement on “Agreement on Movement and Access” between Israel and the PA – EU press release/Non-UN document

Joint EU statement on the Agreement between Israel and the Palestinian Authority on movement and access (15/11/05)

Foreign Secretary Jack Straw, representing the EU Presidency, and the EU High Representative for Common Foreign and Security Policy, Javier Solana, today issued a joint statement welcoming the 'Agreement on Movement and Access' between Israel and the Palestinian Authority.

"We are delighted to see the outcome of the talks that have been taking place between Israel and the Palestinian Authority over the last few days. This agreement has been the result of intensive work by the EU, Jim Wolfensohn, the US and of course the parties themselves.

This is extremely good news. These issues are fundamental to improving the humanitarian situation on the ground in Gaza as well as essential for promoting peaceful economic development. This agreement signifies a major breakthrough and we hope that both sides will now make every effort to ensure that the commitments made are now translated into reality.

For its part, the EU is willing in principle to provide assistance with the operation of crossings at Gaza's borders on the basis of an agreement between the parties. We are now undertaking the necessary preparations and planning. With this border control monitoring mission, the EU will significantly reinforce its role in the field of security in the region."