Moussa: Situation still tough in the region
Egypt-European Union, Politics, 12/6/2000

Egypt's Foreign Minister Amr Moussa met late Tuesday with European Union ME Peace Envoy Miguel Moratinos, currently visiting Egypt as part of a regional tour that also includes Israel and the Palestinian self-rule areas.

In statements following the meeting, Moratinos described the situation as very tough though violence, according to him, is decreasing.

He added that efforts should be exerted to implement Sharm el-Sheikh agreements and a final Palestinian-Israeli agreement should be reached.

" The European Union (EU) demanded Israel to pull out its forces from the occupied territories and to accept to receive the international fact-finding committee", said Moratinos.

He added that EU Commissioner for External and Security Affairs Javier Solana will participate in the committee and that the EU is coordinating efforts with UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan to send observers to help build confidence.

Moratinos said that he will visit Israel on Wednesday and then meet with Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat.

He added that he will, afterwards, head for Jordan before coming back to Cairo for more talks with Moussa on possible resumption of the ME peace process.

" The EU believes that it is time to double European-Egyptian contacts," said Moratinos.

He added that he will accompany French Foreign Minister Hubert Vedrine during his forthcoming ME tour, due next week.

On his assessment of the European role, Moussa voiced belief that the EU has a direct role and is committed to the peace process.

"It is possible to say that the EU shoulders its full responsibilities and provides the Palestinians with political and economic support," added Moussa.

On the other hand, Amr Moussa will hold important talks with his French counterpart Hubert Vedrine, due to arrive in Cairo next week.

Moussa said late Tuesday that his meeting with Vedrine falls within the context of Egyptian-European consultations on the ME peacemaking efforts, especially on the Palestinian track.

He added that no progress has been achieved with regard to the situation in the occupied Palestinian territories.

Previous Stories:
  Egypt continues efforts to stop violence against Palestinians   (12/2/2000)
  Moussa denies plans to hold Arafat-Barak summit   (12/2/2000)
  Moussa: 8-member committee meets in Damascus on November 10   (12/1/2000)

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