No alternative for Israeli-Palestinian negotiations
Regional-European Union, Politics, 8/7/2001

Xavier Solana, commissioner of foreign policy and security relations in the European Union (EU), asserted that the EU is deeply interested in the Middle East issue as joint Mediterranean relations impel the organization to do so. Solana was recently interviewed by Al-Ahram Al-Arabi weekly.

Asked if the recommendations of Mitchell Commission are enough to settle the present situation in the Middle East, Solana answered that they should be implemented first.

Asked if the EU role in the Middle East peace process can be maximized especially with the Arab states' pressures on the EU to intervene, Solana asserted that the EU has been playing a major role in the issue since its beginning back in 1948. The EU is supporting the Palestinian Liberation Organization in part and parcel and exerting every possible effort to settle the issue permanently.

Asked about the rumors of the EU sending international observers to protect Israeli settlements, Solana answered that this step has never been taken because the EU opposes firmly the building of these settlements.

Asked if there is some kind of cooperation with the U.S. regarding the issues of the Middle East, Solana answered that there is a kind of complete cooperation on all levels.

Asked about the future of Barcelona process in the light of the present deteriorating situation, Solana emphasized that the Barcelona process aimed at solving the issues of the whole Mediterranean region as we have a common destiny and future. Therefore, this process is making progress all the time.

Asked if his coming to the region from time to time aims at playing the role of mediator between the Israelis and Palestinians or for other purposes, Solana stated that he works for gaining the confidence of both sides to push the peace process forward.

Asked about the Egyptian-European partnership and its future impact on Egypt and Europe, Solana declared that Egypt is a major partner in any Euro-Mediterranean or Euro-African relations.

Asked about the development of relations between Tunisia and Morocco, and the EU after the two countries have signed similar agreements with the EU, Solana stresses that such agreements enhance the security and welfare of the Mediterranean countries. Meanwhile, the EU will help these countries implementing their reform policies.

Asked about what happens now in Macedonia and the EU's handling of the situation there, Solana affirmed that the EU managed to contain the situation there and stop the violence. He reiterated that the political solution is the only way to put an end to violence there. Thus, the region can enjoy peace and stability.

Asked if the NATO or the EU are planning to send forces to Macedonia, Solana answered that both organizations are ready to exert all efforts to settle this issue and that they will give aids to both of the Albanians and the Macedonian government.

Asked if the situation in Macedonia is liable deteriorate and lead to an all-out war in the Balkan peninsula, Solana answered that the international community is determined to abort any war there. Therefore, the EU is doing its best to contain the situation there.

Previous Stories:
  Moratinos: situation in ME, critical   (7/30/2001)
  Solana heads for the ME today, EU condemns Israel's settlers attacks   (7/23/2001)
  European Union enlargement adversely impact Mediterranean importance, German official   (7/14/2001)

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