Situation is extremely difficult due to sustained Israeli practices
Egypt-Palestine, Politics, 1/10/2002

Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak Wednesday received EU Foreign Policy and Security Chief Javier Solana and his delegation.

Solana briefed the President on the outcome of his talks in the countries he has visited within the context of coordinated American-European efforts to cement a cease-fire between Israelis and Palestinians, resume peace talks and halt deterioration of conditions in the area.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Foreign Minister Ahmed Maher said, "Situation in the Palestinian lands is very difficult because of the continuation of the tight Israeli siege. But this does not mean that we should not continue efforts in cooperation with the US and European states. We have to move things forward."

"What happened in Gaza Wednesday is an evidence that solution cannot be achieved in light of the conditions created by Israeli policies. If we really want to achieve security and stability, it has to be for both sides and through serious negotiations aiming at reaching a political settlement," Maher said.

Maher was referring to the armed clashes that erupted between the two sides and left four Israeli soldiers and two Palestinians killed.

Asked whether the arms-laden ship that was seized recently could adversely affect the situation, Maher said, "the issue of the ship is shrouded by many unanswered questions. We have unilateral information but all we are sure of is that whenever there is a glimpse of hope, something takes place to worsen the situation."

"General Anthony Zinni came to the region this time with readiness to cooperate with both sides equally and already began security meetings but suddenly this issue popped up," Maher added.

"We really hope that the efforts of the US, EU, Russia, Egypt, Jordan and the other countries will be crowned with success as they are all keen on bringing about a just peace in the region," Maher said.

The meeting comes as part of the ongoing contacts President Mubarak is holding on the regional and international levels to ease the current situation in the occupied territories and get Israel to implement Mitchell recommendations.

Solana was accompanied by EU Mideast peace envoy Miguel Moratinos.

Solana's tour included Jordan, Palestinian self-rule areas and Israel.

Previous Stories:
  Policies obstruct reaching a final agreement with Palestinians   (1/3/2002)
  Mubarak: Muslims, Arabs outraged over Israeli attacks   (12/15/2001)
  Maher makes contacts to end deterioration in Palestinian territories   (12/15/2001)

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