Israel - EC Delegation News
The European Union launches the “Samir Kassir Award for Freedom of the Press” 2010
The contest for the fifth edition of the “Samir Kassir Award for Freedom of the Press” is open to candidates from the Mediterranean, the Middle East and the Gulf until 30 March 2010. The “Samir Kassir Award for Freedom of the Press”, which is awarded since 2006 by the European Union in collaboration with the Samir Kassir Foundation, honours the Lebanese journalist and writer Samir Kassir who was assassinated in 2005. It has grown in popularity since its creation, each year witnessing the participation of more candidates from the Mediterranean region, the Middle East, and the Gulf. The award rewards two journalists who have proved to be an example to others by the quality of their work in the two following categories: the best opinion article and the best investigative reporting article.
(2 February, 2010)
Spain to host two-day conference on Mediterranean Solar Plan
Valencia is to host a high-level conference on the Mediterranean Solar Plan on 11-12 May within the framework of the Spanish Presidency of the European Union, gathering together ministers and representatives of the 43 countries that make up the Union for the Mediterranean. The Mediterranean Solar Plan, born under the scope of the ‘Barcelona Process: Union for the Mediterranean (UfM)’, and launched in July 2008, is one of the strategic processes for sustainable development facing the foreseeable increase of energy demand in the Euro-Mediterranean region, and the need to cut back greenhouse effect gas emissions.
(28 January, 2010)
Statement by the High Representative Catherine Ashton on the Holocaust Remebrance Day
This dark period in European and world history must not be forgotten, denied or repeated. Survivors play a vital role in reminding us of these horrors and in keeping the lessons alive for future generations. Their stories must not be forgotten.
(27 January, 2010)
EC Statement on the International Day of Commemoration of the victims of the Holocaust
We have a duty to remember the loss of life and the suffering caused by this unprecedented crime in history. This legacy must be passed to future generations as a memento. Miep Gies, one of the Dutch citizens who hid Anne Frank and her family from the Nazis and who preserved Anne Frank’s diary said that the past is never over.
(27 January, 2010)
New Union for the Mediterranean Assembly brings Euro-Med local authorities together
More than 80 locally elected representatives and 43 partners of the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) are being brought together in Barcelona by the Committee of the Regions (CoR) on Thursday, January 21, for the first meeting of the Euro-Mediterranean Regional and Local Assembly (ARLEM). Israeli members of ARLEM Yona YAHAV and Shlomo BOUCHBOUT announced their participation.
(21 January, 2010)
Catherine Ashton congratulates Henrik Malmquist on taking office as Head of Mission of EUPOL COPPS
Catherine ASHTON, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, today congratulated Henrik MALMQUIST, from Sweden, on taking office as the new Head of Mission of the European Union Police Mission for the Palestinian Territories, EUPOL COPPS. He succeeds Paul Robert KERNAGHAN from the United Kingdom.
(5 January, 2010)
Presidency Statement on settlement expansion in East Jerusalem
The Presidency of the European Union is dismayed at the announcement of the Government of Israel to build nearly 700 apartments in occupied East Jerusalem. Settlements on occupied land are illegal under international law. The plans by the Israeli Government to expand such settlements contravene repeated calls from the international community, including those of the Quartet, and prevent the creation of an atmosphere conducive to resuming negotiations on a two-state solution. The Presidency of the European Union thus urges the Government of Israel to reconsider these plans.
(28 December, 2009)
Declaration by the Presidency on behalf of the EU on Israeli decision regarding settlements
The European Union expresses its disapproval of the decision of the Government of Israel on 13 December to include settlements in the National Priority Areas program. The decision runs counter to the spirit of the settlement freeze, of which Ministers have taken positive note, as a first step in the right direction, in the recent conclusions of the Foreign Affairs Council. It also prevents the creation of an atmosphere conducive to resuming negotiations on a two-state solution. The European Union encourages Israel instead to continue along the path set forth by the moratorium.
(18 December, 2009)
30 years of UN Women’s Rights Convention
Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission, said: “This Convention has now been ratified by almost all countries in the world and in many has guided the review of constitutions or other national legislations, which now enshrine the principle of gender equality. However, much more still needs to be done. What is of pressing concern is that states that have ratified the Convention continue to maintain legislation that discriminates against women, in areas such as inheritance rights, the transmission of nationality by women or the right to property. The EU will continue to engage with partner countries and organisations on these critical issues.”
(17 December, 2009)
EU statement on the vandalisation of a mosque in Kfar Yasuf on Occupied Palestinian Territories
The Presidency of the European Union is dismayed at the vandalisation of a mosque on 11 December in Kfar Yasuf southwest of Nablus. The Presidency welcomes the reaction of Israeli authorities who have condemned this criminal act and initiated investigations. It expects the Israeli authorities to bring those responsible to justice as a matter of urgency. The civilian population in the occupied Palestinian territories which are under the control of Israeli security forces is entitled to full protection against acts of violence.
(11 December, 2009)
10 December 2009 – Human Rights Day
The Human Rights Day focuses on non-discrimination with the motto “Embrace diversity, end discrimination”. While the Universal Declaration of Human Rights establishes that “all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights”, millions around the globe face discrimination in their daily lives. Discrimination on grounds such as sex, racial and ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation is incompatible with the basic principles on which the European Union is founded. The prohibition of discrimination is enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights. The EU is committed to fight against all forms of discrimination both in the EU and worldwide.
(10 December, 2009)
Council Conclusions on the Middle East Peace Process
The Council of the European Union is seriously concerned about the lack of progress in the Middle East peace process. The European Union calls for the urgent resumption of negotiations that will lead, within an agreed time-frame, to a two-state solution with the State of Israel and an independent, democratic, contiguous and viable State of Palestine, living side by side in peace and security.
(8 December, 2009)
Treaty of Lisbon enters into force today
Catherine Ashton, new High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, takes up office today. Herman Van Rompuy, new President of the European Council, to take up office on January 1. In Israel, the Delegation of the European Commission to the State of Israel becomes the Delegation of the European Union.
(1 December, 2009)
President Barroso unveils his new team
José Manuel Barroso, President of the European Commission, today announced the portfolios responsibilities for the next Commission. The President has held detailed consultations with all the Commissioners-designate in order to assign the right jobs to the right people. The President believes that this team can deliver the agenda for change he set out in the political guidelines he presented in September, following his nomination by all 27 Member States and before his approval as President of the next Commission by the European Parliament.
(27 November, 2009)
Presidency statement on settlement expansion in Jerusalem
The European Union is dismayed by the recent decision on the expansion of the settlement of Gilo. The Presidency recalls that settlement activities, house demolitions and evictions in East Jerusalem are illegal under international law. Such activities also prejudge the outcome of final status negotiations and threaten the viability of a two-state solution. The Presidency recalls that the European Union has never recognised the annexation of East Jerusalem in 1967 nor the subsequent 1980 basic law.
(18 November, 2009)
Statement of President Barroso at the EU-Russia Summit on Climate Change
Speaking at the press conference following the EU-Russia Summit, President of the European Commission, José Manuel Barroso stated that “With the Copenhagen conference starting in just over 2 weeks, we have made very important progress today and I very much welcome the signal from President Medvedev today of their proposed emissions reduction target of 20 to 25%.
(18 November, 2009)
EU Declaration on the humanitarian situation in Gaza
The European Union remains gravely concerned by the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Calls for urgent measures have not been sufficiently answered. The European Union continues to urge that prompt and concrete measures be taken to solve the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and to allow for reconstruction and economic recovery.
(17 November, 2009)
The Copenhagen climate change negotiations: EU position and state of play
International negotiations were launched in December 2007 to draw up a United Nations agreement on tackling climate change for the period after 2012, when the first commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol (setting emission targets for industrialised countries) will expire. The deadline set for the negotiations to be concluded is the Copenhagen climate conference on 7-18 December 2009. Five negotiating sessions at official level have been held this year to prepare the agreement, the final round from 2 to 6 November in Barcelona.
(9 November, 2009)
European Union and Israel sign new agreement on trade in agriculture
The European Union and Israel signed, on Wednesday, November 4, 2009, a new agreement on trade in agriculture. Under the new agreement, access to the markets of both sides has been greatly improved. For processed agricultural products and fish, there will be a high level of full liberalization of trade. For fresh agricultural products, substantial progress was made towards full liberalization of trade. Regarding more sensitive agricultural products, market access improvement was achieved for both sides both by means of increasing existing duty free quotas and by creating new quotas.
(6 November, 2009)
Barroso Statement on the signature of the instrument of ratification in the Czech Republic
I welcome that President Klaus has taken the crucial step of signing the instrument of ratification on the Treaty of Lisbon in the Czech Republic. It’s now absolutely clear that the Lisbon Treaty will enter into force soon. At this point in time; I want to pay tribute to all those who have worked hard in the 27 member states to make the Lisbon Treaty a reality. The road is now open for the consultations on the appointment of the President of the European Council and Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative to begin. This will in turn allow me to start the process of nominating the new Commission.
(4 November, 2009)
EU leaders pledge leading role in climate change talks
European Heads of state and government have agreed a conditional deal on climate financing during the meeting of the European Council in Brussels on 29 and 30 October, establishing the position of the EU ahead of the forthcoming Copenhagen Conference on climate change. EU leaders also confirmed urgent the need for a clear institutional set up for the Union and called for the rapid ratification of the Lisbon Treaty by the end of the year.
(3 November, 2009)
EU Presidency Statement on evictions and house demolitions in East Jerusalem
The Presidency of the European Union is deeply concerned about increasing tensions in East Jerusalem. We continue to urge all parties to refrain from any provocative actions that could further inflame tensions or lead to violence. In that context, the Presidency is particularly concerned about the recent demolitions of the homes of Palestinian families. The Presidency calls for an immediate and unconditional halt to such actions.
(29 October, 2009)
Javier Solana condemns house demolitions in East Jerusalem
Javier SOLANA, EU High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), issued a statement today condemning the recent demolitions of Palestinian houses in East Jerusalem:
“I am deeply concerned by the reports of recent demolitions of Palestinian houses located in East Jerusalem. Such actions further undermine the efforts of the international community to re-launch credible peace negotiations aimed at achieving a just and sustainable peace. I urge the Israeli authorities to end these discriminatory measures. Everybody must avoid the risk of escalation in East Jerusalem.”
(28 October, 2009)
European Commission launches new EU Trade Website
The European Commission has unveiled a new website for trade policy which will feature more information, better navigation, and user-friendly features including a database of trade defence investigations. The EU Trade website remains the gateway for detailed information on EU trade policy. With a clear layout, improved navigation, and a host of added features, the new site provides visitors with a more user-friendly access to key information.
(22 October, 2009)
Javier Solana says Palestinian state should be established along 1967 lines
In Ramallah, in comments to the press, HR Solana underlined that the objective of the European Union “is to have a Palestinian state, the sooner the better. This state will be constructed on territory marked by the borders of 1967. It may be necessary to swap some territory, but this should not disturb the nature and continuity of the territory. The position of the EU is identical of the one of the Quartet, as it was expressed on the occasion of the UN General Assembly in New York in September, when it met for the last time.”
(21 October, 2009)
Javier Solana visits Israel and the Palestinian Territories
Javier SOLANA, EU High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), is travelling to Israel and the Palestinian Territories from Monday, 19 October to Wednesday, 21 0ctober 2009.
The High Representative will meet the Israeli and the Palestinian authorities and attend the Israeli Presidential Conference “Facing Tomorrow” hosted by President Shimon Peres in Jerusalem.
(18 October, 2009)
Quartet Statement
Recalling the fundamental principles laid down in its statement in Trieste on June 26, 2009, the Quartet welcomes the recent meetings between U.S. President Barack Obama, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas as significant steps toward the re-launching of direct, bilateral negotiations as part of a comprehensive resolution of the Arab-Israeli conflict, on the basis of UN Security Council Resolutions 242, 338, 1397, 1515, 1850, and the Madrid principles.
(24 September, 2009)
Leading Mediterranean figures call upon world leaders not to miss “historic opportunity for peace”
Former UN Peace Envoy Lakhdar Brahimi, and André Azoulay, Counsellor to the King of Morocco and President of the Anna Lindh Foundation, are among the leading voices at the Restore Trust International Forum in Stockholm calling upon world leaders not to miss a historic opportunity to create the conditions for peace in the Middle East and wider Mediterranean region. On the occasion of the International Day for Peace, and on the eve of President Obama’s joint meeting with Middle East leaders, civil society and media from over 30 countries of the Union for the Mediterranean gather in Sweden to debate prospects for peace and to present the outcomes of the initiative Restore Trust, Rebuild Bridges.
(23 September, 2009)
“Edge back from the abyss - It’s time to deliver on climate change” Article by Jose Manuel Barroso
Climate change is happening faster than we believed only two years ago. Continuing with business as usual almost certainly means dangerous, perhaps catastrophic, climate change during the course of this century. This is the most important challenge for this generation of politicians.
(22 September, 2009)
Declaration by the Presidency on behalf of the EU on Israeli settlements
The European Union expresses its serious concern over Israel’s approval of additional settlement construction. Settlements are illegal under international law and constitute an obstacle to peace. The European Union reiterates its call on Israel to immediately end settlement activities, including in East Jerusalem and including natural growth, and to dismantle all outposts erected since March 2001.
(8 September, 2009)
Javier Solana to visit the Middle East from 30 August to 2 September 2009
Javier SOLANA, EU High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), will visit the Middle East from Sunday, 30 August to Wednesday, 2 September 2009. Mr SOLANA will visit Syria, Israel, the Palestinian Territories, Egypt and Lebanon. His trip takes place in the context of the major push by the international community towards a resolution of the Israeli-Arab conflict.
(31 August, 2009)
EU support to Human Rights Defenders via EIDHR
The Delegation would like to draw your attention to the fact that the European Commission can provide specific assistance to individual Human Rights Defenders. Under the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR) Annual Action Programme 2009, 200.000 EUR have been allocated for cases of emergency, including cases in which an individual Human Rights Defender is under threat.
(28 August, 2009)
Presidency statement on evictions in East Jerusalem
The Presidency of the European Union reiterates its serious concern about the continued and unacceptable evictions in East Jerusalem, notably the evictions by Israeli authorities of two families from their homes in the Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood on Sunday 2 August 2009.
(3 August, 2009)
Presidency Statement on actions in East Jerusalem
The Presidency of the European Union urges Israel to refrain from provocative actions in East Jerusalem, including home demolitions and evictions, as stated also by the Quartet 26 June 2009. Such actions are illegal under international law.
(21 July, 2009)
Union for the Mediterranean: Commission increases its contribution to priority projects
On the eve of the first anniversary of the launching of the Union for the Mediterranean (Paris, 13 July 2008), the European Commission announces an additional contribution of €72 million, for 2009-2010, to the areas identified as priorities by the Euro-Mediterranean Heads of State and Government in Paris. Work will focus on the de-pollution of the Mediterranean Sea, maritime and land highways, alternative energies, with a focus on the Mediterranean Solar Plan, higher education and research and supporting investment in businesses. Part of the funds will be dedicated to support the running of the Union for the Mediterranean Secretariat.
(11 July, 2009)
Memo: Union for the Mediterranean
The Union for the Mediterranean (UpM), created at the Paris Summit of Euro-Mediterranean Heads of State and Government on 13 July 2008, is the framework of multilateral relations between the EU and the Mediterranean non-EU countries. It complements bilateral relations, which will continue to develop under the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) and the pre-accession framework.
(10 July, 2009)
10,000 Erasmus Mundus scholarships for 2009-2010
The European Commission has just awarded almost 10,000 new grants to be funded by the Erasmus Mundus programme in the academic year 2009-2010. 8,385 students and academics will come to study or teach in Europe, and 1,561 Europeans will spend periods at partner institutions in countries outside Europe. Twenty Israeli scholars and 18 Israeli students were granted scholarships under Erasmus Mundus.
(1 July, 2009)
Quartet Statement
the Quartet called on Israel and the Palestinians to implement their obligations under the Roadmap and affirmed that unilateral actions taken by either party cannot prejudge the outcome of negotiations and will not be recognized by the international community.
(26 June, 2009)
Declaration by the Presidency on behalf of the EU concerning post-election crisis in Iran
The EU, in full respect of the sovereignty of Iran, closely follows the development of the post-election situation in Iran, and expects the crisis to be settled through democratic dialogue and peaceful means. The EU is deeply concerned with the continuing brutal violence against demonstrators which has so far resulted in the loss of lives.
(23 June, 2009)
Israel and European Commission to sign 2008 Financing Agreement for Annual Action Programme
The objective of the Annual Action Programme is to develop an increasingly close relationship between the EU and Israel, aiming at achieving a significant level of economic integration and deepening political co-operation. The financial contribution of the European Union shall be limited to the amount of 2 million euro per year.
(22 June, 2009)
Occupied Palestinian Territory and Syria: Commission allocates €6 million for drought victims
The European Commission has launched an emergency decision for €6 million to provide food assistance to victims of the drought in the occupied Palestinian territory and Syria.
(17 June, 2009)
Ninth Meeting of the EU-Israel Association Council
The European Union warmly welcomes the ninth Meeting of the EU-Israel Association Council. This Association Council, organised shortly after the formation of the new Israeli government, confirms the great importance the European Union is attaching to its relations with Israel and its readiness to continue strengthening our bilateral partnership.
(16 June, 2009)
Council conclusions on Middle East Peace Process
The European Union remains committed to a comprehensive settlement of the Arab-Israeli conflict, on the basis of the relevant UN Security Council Resolutions, the terms of reference of the Madrid conference, including land for peace, the Roadmap, the agreements previously reached by the parties and the Arab Peace Initiative.
(15 June, 2009)
Javier Solana, EU High Representative for the CFSP, visits the Middle East
Javier SOLANA, EU High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), is travelling to the Middle East from Wednesday, 10 June to Sunday, 14 June 2009. Mr Solana is travelling to Israel, the Palestinian Territories, Lebanon and Egypt. This trip takes place at a moment when the international community is intensifying its efforts to relaunch the Peace Process and a few days after the elections held in Lebanon.
(9 June, 2009)
Remarks to the press by Javier SOLANA, on President Obama’s speech in Cairo
“President Obama’s speech in Cairo today was a remarkable speech, both in its content and in its form. It was a speech that without any doubt will open a new page in relations with the Arab-Muslim world and I hope in the efforts to solve the many problems we have in so many theatres in the region.
(6 June, 2009)
Poster Design Contest for Researchers’ Night 2010
The European Union, the Ministry of Science and Technology and other participating research institutions, announce a Pan-European Poster Design Contest for Researchers’ Night 2010. Researchers’ Night is a night of events and scientific activities that include meetings with scientists, night tours on topics of science and nature, demonstrations, workshops and other family activities. Research Institutions and Museums are open to the public for the night free of charge.
(2 June, 2009)
Restore Trust, Rebuild Bridges: Call for civil society action
The Anna Lindh Foundation is launching and supporting a series of initiatives under the title ‘Restore Trust, Rebuild Bridges’, aimed at promoting a culture of coexistence and peace in the Euro-Mediterranean region. They include a grant scheme for local and regional actions that take place between July 1 and September 21, 2009 (International Day of Peace).
(12 May, 2009)
European Commission launches 2009 Lorenzo Natali Prize for committed journalists
On World Press Freedom Day the Commission is officially launching the Lorenzo Natali Prize for 2009. The prize is awarded in partnership with Reporters Without Borders and the World Association of Newspapers to journalists who have demonstrated a commitment to human rights, democracy and development.
(5 May, 2009)
EU support for establishing a national public transport authority in Israel
An ambitious transport co-operation programme between the Israeli Ministry of Transport and the European Union is to be launched at a seminar to be held 4 May in Yad Hashmona. The 21 month long joint project aims to strengthen the capacity of the Israeli ministry to provide quality transit for urban regions in Israel and is a European Union ‘twinning’ programme.
(30 April, 2009)
European Commission’s reaction to the Swine flu outbreak in Mexico
Commission President José Manuel Barroso this morning made a statement on the Commission reaction to the Swine flu outbreak in Mexico.
(27 April, 2009)
Implementation of the European Neighbourhood Policy in 2008. Progress Report - Israel
The year 2008 ended with one of the gravest chapters in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, exacerbating the situation of the Palestinian population in Gaza, which was already impoverished prior to the Israeli offensive.
(23 April, 2009)
Memo: European Neighbourhood Policy - Israel
The EU and Israel have been active partners in the framework of the ENP, as demonstrated by the progress made in implementing a large number of priorities of the Action Plan. Throughout 2008, Israel’s willingness to engage with the EU in a constructive dialogue on sensitive issues continued to grow, and closer political co-operation and dialogue was achieved. However, progress with regard to the promotion of democracy, rule of law and respect for human rights and international humanitarian law was limited, as was cooperation with the EU on a comprehensive settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
(23 April, 2009)
The EU Member States’ position on the Durban Review Conference
The EU rejects in strongest terms views expressed by President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad labelling Israel as racist regime. EU Member States with the exception of the Netherlands, Italy, Poland, Germany, and the Czech Republic continue to participate in the Conference. Participating Member States have no outstanding difficulty of substance with the draft Outcome Document and are ready to give its consent to it during the adoption on Friday.
(21 April, 2009)
Position of the European Commission on the Durban Review Conference in Geneva
The European Commission believes that this event could provide an important opportunity to illustrate and review many of the concrete and important steps taken at the national level, at the international level, but also at the regional level, to fight against racism and discrimination. The EU remains committed to do all it can to fight all manifestations of racism and xenophobia, and expects its international partners to do the same.
(21 April, 2009)
EU Presidency Statement on the approval of the new Israeli government by the Knesset
The Presidency considers Israel to be an important partner in the Middle East and underlines its readiness to closely cooperate with the new Israeli government to advance this partnership on all levels of common interest.
(2 April, 2009)
Message from the President of the European Commission to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu
The European Commission is looking forward to working with the new Israeli Government in pursuit of a common agenda.
(1 April, 2009)
Adapting to climate change: the EU must prepare for the impacts to come
The European Commission presented today a White Paper outlining actions needed to strengthen the Union’s resilience in coping with a changing climate. It sets out a two-phase strategic approach to adapting to the impacts of climate change in the EU which complements actions taken by Member States through an integrated and coordinated approach.
(1 April, 2009)
Presidency declaration on behalf of the EU on the threatened house evictions in East Jerusalem
The EU is deeply concerned by the issuing of eviction notices to the al-Rawi and Hanoun families in East Jerusalem. These eviction notices follow other recent orders which adversely affect Palestinians living in East Jerusalem and, combined with the increase in settlement activity in East Jerusalem, further threaten the chances of peace.
(24 March, 2009)
Declaration by the Presidency on behalf of the EU on possible house demolitions in East Jerusalem
The EU is deeply concerned about the threat of demolition to approximately 90 houses in the Al-Bustan / Silwan area adjacent to the Old City in East Jerusalem. If implemented, the demolition would deprive more than 1000 Palestinians of their homes and would be the largest destruction of Palestinian houses in East Jerusalem since 1967.
(11 March, 2009)
Comments by Solana on the occasion of the International Conference for the Reconstruction of Gaza
Mr SOLANA attended the International Conference in Support of the Palestinian Economy for the Reconstruction of Gaza, held in Sharm El-Sheikh on Monday, 2 march 2009. The following is an edited summary of his comments.
(4 March, 2009)
The EU in the Middle East Peace Process
The EU’s objective is a two-state solution with an independent, democratic, viable Palestinian state living side-by-side with Israel and its other neighbours.
(27 February, 2009)
Commission to co-sponsor Palestinian Donors Conference
Benita Ferrero-Waldner, European Commissioner for External Relations and Neighbourhood Policy, will pledge on 2 March in Sharm El Sheikh (Egypt) €436 million ($554 million) to the Palestinian people for 2009 at the “Conference in Support of the Palestinian Economy for the Reconstruction of Gaza”.
(27 February, 2009)
Declaration by the Presidency on behalf of the European Union on the settlement activities of Israel
The European Union condemns Israel’s planned settlement construction in the vicinity of the Adam settlement in the West Bank. If built, this will constitute a new settlement block.
(20 February, 2009)
Hans-Gert Pöttering leads a Euromed Assembly fact finding mission to Gaza and the Middle East
A delegation of parliamentarians from both sides of the Mediterranean led by Hans-Gert Pöttering, who is both President of the European Parliament and President of the Euro-Mediterranean Parliamentary Assembly, will go to Cairo, Gaza, Ramallah, Jerusalem and Amman on 22-24 February to assess the situation following the recent events in the Middle East and contribute to the re-launch of the Peace Process.
(19 February, 2009)
Javier Solana, EU High Representative for the CFSP, visits the Middle East
Mr Solana is travelling to Syria, Lebanon, Egypt, Israel and the Palestinian Territories, a few days before participating in the international conference in support of the Palestinian economy, for the reconstruction of Gaza, to be held in Sharm El-Sheikh on 2 March 2009.
(23 February, 2009)
Council Conclusions, Middle East Peace Process
The Council discussed the situation regarding the Middle East peace process, following the Israeli parliamentary elections held on 10 February. The discussion focused on preparations for the international conference in support of the Palestinian economy for the reconstruction of Gaza which will be held on 2 March in Sharm el-Sheikh (Egypt), in particular the input of the EU as a co-sponsor of the conference.
(23 February, 2009)
Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner and US Secretary of State Clinton discuss Middle East and Afghanistan
During a phone conversation Commissioner for External Relations and European Neighbourhood Policy, Benita Ferrero-Waldner and US Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton shared the view that the international community needs to continue engaging with full energy on the Middle East.
(12 February, 2009)
EU Presidency statement on the election result in Israel
The EU considers Israel one of its important partners and looks forward to further developing this relationship. In particular, it looks forward to working with the new Israeli administration to achieve the most important goal of all – a peaceful resolution of the Israeli Palestinian conflict.
(10 February, 2009)
Declaration by the Presidency on behalf of the EU on the International Holocaust Memorial Day
On behalf of the European Union the Presidency of the Council invites all countries to honour the memory of all Holocaust victims and to commemorate the 64th anniversary of the liberation of the Nazi concentration and extermination camp in Auschwitz-Birkenau on the International Holocaust Memorial Day, 27th January.
(27 January, 2009)
Council Conclusions on Middle East Peace Process 2921st External Relations Council meeting
The Council adopted the following conclusions:
(27 January, 2009)
Javier Solana visits the Middle East from Monday, 26 January to Wednesday, 28 January 2009
Javier Solana is travelling to Egypt, Jordan, the Palestinian Territories and Israel, as part of the European Union’s efforts to consolidate a lasting cease-fire, facilitate humanitarian relief for the victims in Gaza and re-launch the peace process.
(26 January, 2009)
EU Commissioner announces further € 58 mln in humanitarian aid for vulnerable Palestinian populati
The European Commission is launching the 2009 Global Plan allocating €58 million to assist the Palestinian populations. From this commitment around € 32 million will be earmarked to respond to the dramatic humanitarian situation in Gaza, €20 million will be for assistance to the West Bank, and the remaining €6 million is destined for Palestinian refugees in Lebanon.
(26 January, 2009)
Summary of remarks to the press by Javier Solana on the Gaza crisis
Javier Solana told reporters today that it is essential to open up Gaza to allow humanitarian aid to enter. He said that the European Union is engaged at the humanitarian, political and economic levels and is sparing no effort to get relief to those in need and to help ensure that the ceasefire holds and that the peace process itself is taken forward.
(21 January, 2009)
Louis Michel to undertake humanitarian mission to Gaza and Southern Israel
European Commissioner for Development and Humanitarian Aid, Louis Michel, is to travel to Gaza and Israel later this week on a two-day humanitarian mission amid the current ceasefires.
(20 January, 2009)
Launch of the “Samir Kassir Award for Freedom of the Press” 2009
The contest for the fourth edition of the “Samir Kassir Award for Freedom of the Press” is open to candidates from the Mediterranean, the Middle East and the Gulf from 15 January to 30 March 2009.
(19 January, 2009)
Statement of Ferrero-Waldner ahead of Foreign Ministers meetings with Israel and Arab counterparts
“I welcome the calm that thanks to the announcement by Hamas of a ceasefire following Israel’s unilateral ceasefire declaration will finally allow our aid partners to alleviate the suffering of the population after so many days of distress.
(19 January, 2009)
EU Presidency statement on ongoing attacks in Gaza
The Presidency condemns today’s strike on a building of UNRWA in Gaza City by Israeli artillery.
(15 January, 2009)
Louis Michel “shocked and dismayed” about the Israeli shelling of UN headquarters in Gaza
European Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid Louis Michel has expressed his complete “shock and dismay” at the shelling of the United Nations’ compound in Gaza earlier today. Commissioner Michel, on behalf of the EC, offered his full support for UNRWA’s (United Nations Relief and Works Agency) decision to suspend its operations following the incident.
(15 January, 2009)
Czech Presidency plans to hold a Donors’ Conference for Gaza
Czech Foreign Minister Karel Schwarzenberg is prepared to call an international donors’ conference to deal with the urgent humanitarian situation of the inhabitants of Gaza.
(12 January, 2009)
Delegation of members of the European Parliament visits Gaza
Sunday January 11, a delegation composed of 8 members of the European Parliament and one member of the Italian Senate, entered the Gaza Strip for a visit of several hours. This was the first visit by politicians to have taken place since the beginning of the Israeli military operation.
(12 January, 2009)
EU Presidency statement on the Middle East
The Presidency is deeply concerned over the continuing Israeli military action in Gaza and the continuation of indiscriminate rocket attacks on Israel. The European Union continues to believe that the two state solution remains the best hope for a lasting peace.
(9 January, 2009)
Statement by Commissioner Louis Michel on suspension of movements of UNRWA staff througout Gaza
The European Commission condemns in the strongest terms the attacks on UNRWA humanitarian convoys and personnel. These attacks have resulted in UNWRA being forced to temporarily halt its staff movements in the Gaza Strip. This decision by UNWRA primarily affects food distribution across Gaza.
(9 January, 2009)
EU Commission and Israel to liaise on humanitarian aid
An official from the European Commission will be arriving in Israel in the coming days to set up coordination of EU humanitarian aid with the Israeli authorities. Food, clean drinking water, medical assistance and shelter were the main priorities in Gaza.
(8 January, 2009)
Javier Solana, EU High Representative for the CFSP, visits the Middle East
Javier Solana, EU High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), is travelling to the Middle East from Sunday, 4 January to Thursday, 8 January 2009 in order to discuss the extremely serious situation in Gaza and in southern Israel with the leaders in the region as part of the European Union’s efforts to secure a cease-fire and to facilitate humanitarian relief for the victims of the conflict.
(5 January, 2009)
Statement by the European Union on the situation in the Middle East
The Foreign Ministers or their representatives of the Member States of the European Union, the High Representative for the CFSP and the European Commission met on 30 December to discuss the situation in the Middle East, following current tragic events in Israel and Gaza. The European Union, conscious of the suffering and anguish of all civilian populations, puts forward the following proposals to resolve the crisis:
(31 December, 2008)
Javier Solana congratulates Paul Robert Kernaghan on taking office as Head of Mission of EUPOL COPPS
Javier Solana, EU High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), issued a statement today congratulating Chief Constable Paul Robert Kernaghan who takes office as the new Head of the EUPOL COPPS Mission on 1 January 2009.
(30 December, 2008)
The EC urges Hamas and Israel to immediately halt all attacks affecting the civilian population
The European Commission is extremely concerned about the plight of civilians in the Gaza Strip. It calls for an immediate halt to military hostilities that are having a heavy impact on the civilian population in Gaza. It also firmly calls for a halt to the rocket attacks targeting Israeli civilians.
(30 December, 2008)
Statement by Javier Solana, EU High Representative for the CFSP, on violence in and around Gaza
Javier Solana, EU High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), made the following comments on the current violence in and around Gaza:
(27 December, 2008)
Statement by Commissioner Benita Ferrero-Waldner on the situation in the Middle East
Commissioner Benita Ferrero-Waldner expressed grave concern at the ongoing Israeli military air strikes in the Gaza Strip. She called on all sides to exercise the utmost restraint, and to stop the escalation of violence which endangers the civilian population. She also called on both sides to return immediately to the ceasefire.
(27 December, 2008)
Declaration of the Council of the European Union on the violence in Gaza
La présidence du Conseil de l’Union européenne, qui avait condamné le 24 décembre les tirs de roquettes visant le territoire israélien à partir de Gaza, exprime sa plus vive préoccupation devant l’escalade de la violence dans la bande de Gaza et déplore le très grand nombre de victimes civiles.
(27 December, 2008)
Statement of the Presidency of the Council of the European Union on the situation in Gaza
The Presidency of the Council of the European Union expresses its deep concern over the continuation of rocket attacks on Israeli territory from Gaza. It condemns the attacks and calls for a return to the truce as swiftly as possible.
(24 December, 2008)
Quartet statement
Representatives of the Quartet—U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, High Representative for Common Foreign and Security Policy of the European Union Javier Solana, European Commissioner for External Relations Benita Ferrero-Waldner, and French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner—endorsed the following statement on the situation in the Middle East. They were joined by Quartet representative Tony Blair.
(15 December, 2008)
European Council Declaration on the Middle East
The Middle East Peace Process will remain a top priority for the European Union in 2009. A just, lasting and comprehensive peace is urgently needed. The EU will do all it can both practically and politically to drive the peace process forward next year, working closely with our international partners, and in particular in the Quartet, to promote a solution to the Israel/Palestine conflict on the basis of two states living in peace and security. The EU will also support talks between Israel and Syria, and if possible Lebanon.
(12 December, 2008)
PEGASE contributions to projects in the Palestinian Territories
PEGASE, the EU mechanism used to support the Palestinian people, provides financial and technical assistance in four key areas: governance, social development, economic and private sector development; and public infrastructure.
(10 December, 2008)
10 December 2008 - International Human Rights Day
This year’s International Human Rights Day is of special significance as it marks the 60th anniversary celebrations of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which represented the first step in establishing a comprehensive international framework for the protection of human rights.
(9 December, 2008)
EU and Israel sign aviation agreement
Today, the European Community and the Government of Israel signed an aviation agreement which will remove nationality restrictions in the bilateral air services agreements between EU Member States and Israel.
(9 December, 2008)
STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENCY OF THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION ON THE HOUSE OCCUPIED BY SETTLERS I
The Presidency of the Council of the European Union welcomes the decision by the Israeli government to remove settlers from a Palestinian house in Hebron that they had occupied by force. This decision is in compliance with international law.
(5 December, 2008)
Council Conclusions Strengthening of the EU bilateral relations with its Mediterranean partners - up
The Council adopted various conclusions.
(9 December, 2008)
Javier SOLANA, EU High Representative for the CFSP, congratulates Alain FAUGERAS
Javier SOLANA, EU High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), congratulated Colonel Alain FAUGERAS who today is taking office as the new Head of the EUBAM Rafah Mission.
(30 November, 2008)
The Commission launches a major Recovery Plan for economy
The European Commission has today presented a comprehensive plan to drive Europe’s recovery from the current economic crisis.
(27 November, 2008)
Delegation website: http://www.delisr.ec.europa.eu/english/default.asp