EU Deputy Representative Thomas Nicholas reiterated on Tuesday the commitment of the European Union to the two-state solution, while Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh called on the EU to immediately recognize the Palestinian State.
Speaking during the launch of calibration laboratories, which operate under the Palestine Standards Institution, established thanks to an EU fund, Nicholas said: “We, at the European Union, chose to stand with you in building a Palestinian State which is free and independent, a state that contributes in regional and world peace, a state that builds on the respect of human rights and a strong and free economy, and with Jerusalem serving as the shared capital of Israel and Palestine.”
The EU official welcomed the latest agreement reached with Israel to transfer the tax money on oil and fuels directly to the Palestinian Authority.
He also called on respecting the signed agreements between the Palestinians and Israel and on not moving the Palestinian funds, which he said belong to the Palestinian people.
For his part, Shtayyeh praised the EU stance from the Palestinian cause, calling on the Union to recognize the Palestinian State.
“Those statements do not only affirm the spirit of partnership between the EU and Palestine, but also assert the genuine position of the Union towards justice and peace in Palestine and the world,” Shtayyeh said.
He said the EU is a partner in peace and in several development projects.
“While Israel prepares for elections next September, we call on the EU to recognize the state of Palestine with Jerusalem as its capital,” he added.
The PM granted Nicholas a Palestinian passport in recognition for his efforts to enhance partnership between the Palestinians and the EU.
