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The Council expresses its condolences
to the Palestinian people on the occasion of President
Arafat’s death and commends the approach of the current
leadership in organising a smooth transition.
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Reaffirming the EU’s goals and
policies with respect to the Middle East peace process,
the Council calls upon all parties to abstain from any
provocative or violent action and to demonstrate the
necessary courage and leadership in order to advance the
peace process. Terrorism and hostilities must end.
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The Council reiterates its commitment
to pursue the short-term programme of action proposed by
High Representative to the European Council, and
concludes that immediate action is required to support
the presidential elections, to improve the security
situation and to provide financial support to the
Palestinian Authority.
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Free and fair presidential elections
are an indispensable step in the process of
consolidating democratic institutions. The EU stands
ready to assist the Palestinian Authority financially,
technically and politically. The Council calls on the
Palestinian Authority to organise elections in
accordance with international standards under the
authority of an independent electoral commission and
calls upon Israel to facilitate these elections. The
electoral process should be supported by all. The
Council welcomes the Commission’s intention to launch an
Election Observation Mission.
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At this critical moment in time, the
Palestinian Authority should dispose of the means
necessary to carry out its functions, including in the
field of security. The Palestinian institutions and
economy should be strengthened and Israel and other
members of the international community have a shared
responsibility to facilitate this. The EU calls on all
donors and the parties directly concerned to meet their
commitments and where possible to step up their efforts,
in view of the next meeting of the AHLC.
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The EU will spare no effort to
promote peace and security in the Middle East, both in
the short-term and in the longer-term, within the
broader political perspective.
It is determined to co-ordinate its efforts with the
parties involved and with its partners, in particular
the Quartet members. The Council supports High
Representative Solana's ongoing high-level consultations
and welcomes the decision to convene a Quartet
principals level meeting at short notice. The full
political commitment of the Quartet remains crucial.
