Denmark fully supports John Kerry’s efforts for peace in the Middle East – Phone meeting between Danish FM and US Secy of State, statement – Danish Foreign Min. press release/Non-UN document

Denmark fully supports John Kerry's efforts for peace in the Middle East

08.08.2013  18:00

During a phone meeting today, the Danish Minister for Foreign Affairs Villy Søvndal and US Secretary of State John Kerry addressed a number of present issues regarding foreign policy and security policy. For both Denmark and the US it has been a priority for a long time to discuss the great challenges on the foreign policy agenda, among these the situation in the Middle East and the restart of the peace process.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Villy Søvndal states:

“I have looked forward to the conversation with US Secretary of State today. John Kerry has done an impressive job in bringing Israel and Palestine back to the negotiation table. It is both ambitious and difficult – and there is a long way to go. But I have expressed Denmark’s and the EU’s support for his and the parties’ efforts, and the EU is ready to contribute where possible.

US Secretary of State Kerry and I are both deeply concerned with the present highly tense situation in Egypt and that it for the moment does not seem likely to find a negotiated solution. In particular, it is of great importance that the interim leadership implements an inclusive process, with respect for the rights and freedoms of all Egyptians.

But friends should also be able to talk freely with one another. This is why I raised the question of the use of drones and our concerns with regards to the latest months’ serious accusations about surveillance of EU premises. Denmark supports the EU’s demand for full clarification and the EU is currently awaiting a response from the US authorities on this matter.

Our conversation today reflects the long and close relationship between Denmark and the US. A relationship which has only been strengthened the last years with the Obama administration’s increased focus on a number of issues, which are also of great importance to the Danish Government. This applies to i.e. disarmament and climate challenges.”

For further information please contact:
Press Advisor to the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Lars Peter Levy, phone: +45 41904124 mail: larlev@um.dk