Euro-Mediterranean Partnership Conference – Presidency conclusions on Mideast, Iraq – EU press release/Non-UN document

Presidency Conclusions on Middle East, Iraq at Euro-Mediterranean Conference

" 4. The Ministers discussed the recent developments in the Middle East and the Mediterranean. Violence, destruction, suffering, human rights violations and bloodshed have continued in the region, reaching again an alarming level during the last weeks. They expressed their condemnation of terrorism, violence and deplored the loss of human lives and extended their deepest sympathy to the families of those killed and wounded.

6. The Ministers unequivocally reiterated their support for peaceful means of conflict resolution in the region. Peace in the Middle East should be restored on the basis of UNSCR  242, 338 and 1397. The Peace Process should lead to the creation of a democratic, viable and independent State of Palestine, bringing to an end the occupation of 1967, and the right of Israel to live within secure and recognised boundaries, guaranteed by the commitment of the international community. The end of the conflict requires agreed solutions to all aspects of permanent status issues.

12. The Ministers reiterated that the Middle East Peace Process and the Barcelona Process are complementary, and expressed their readiness to use fully the potential of the Barcelona Process to make a positive contribution to the stabilisation of the Mediterranean region. At the present juncture, a reinvigorated cooperation within the region and with Mediterranean partners should be sought.

13. The Ministers discussed also the issue of Iraq and expressed their concern to safeguard the unity, territorial integrity and sovereignty of the country and stability in the region. They called upon the international community and regional states to work closely with the UN to this end. It is also imperative that the Iraqi people decide their political future and manage the country’s natural resources for their own benefit.

14. In this framework the Ministers welcomed the UNSCR 1483/2003 on Iraq as a clear sign of a new spirit of co-operation within the international community. They also welcomed the Resolution’s provisions for a key UN role in the rebuilding effort in this country and the nomination of Sergio Vieira de Mello as the UN Special Representative for Iraq, with whom they look forward to working closely in order to address the immediate needs of the Iraqi people. It will also provide for a legitimate Iraqi interim administration and mobilize support of the international community, as it will enhance international co-ordination for rallying support for the political and economic reconstruction process."

Ref: CL03-200EN

EU source: Council

UN forum: 

Date: 27/5/2003